Media accreditation is now open for the two events that will launch the European Capital of Culture year: New Year’s Oulu2026 Show and the Opening Festival.
New Year’s Celebration: Oulu2026 Show (31 December 2025) will kick off the European Capital of Culture year with a bang at Oulu Hall. The show will drum up the new year with the best and most vibrant elements of Finnish pop culture. Audiences can look forward to a spectacular 100% entertainment experience, broadcast live on Yle Areena – the online streaming service of Finland’s national public broadcaster, Yle (Finnish Broadcasting Company) – and on television.
Oulu2026 Opening Festival (16–18 January 2026) will transform the entire city centre of Oulu into a festival area celebrating the European Capital of Culture year. This open urban event will launch the year with art, music, and a strong sense of community as all eyes across Europe turn to Oulu. Over three magical days, this captivating winter city festival unveils the essence of Oulu2026 and Cultural Climate Change.
Media accreditations are limited and will be granted partly on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is recommended. Welcome to cover the story!
