Raahe celebrates the Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture year with a brand-new week-long music festival, Raahe Sounds. The programme offers something for everyone, bringing together music, art, and performances for audiences of all ages.
The concert series opens on Tuesday, May 5, with a grand opening performance produced by the Raahe Music Institute. The stage at Raahesali Hall will come alive with a wide range of ensembles and orchestras. The festival culminates in a closing concert on May 13 at Raahe Church, presented in collaboration by the Raahe Parish and the Lapland Military Band.
“Raahe Sounds beautifully showcases local musical and cultural expertise while highlighting collaboration across art forms. At the same time, it offers both residents and visitors an accessible way to experience culture,” says Kristina Leskinen, Principal of the Raahe Music Institute.
Nine Days of Cultural Highlights
The nine-day programme features a variety of events, including a concert by the Music Institute’s teachers at Brain Center, a community sing-along evening led by Pauli Ylitalo at Raahesali Hall, and a guitar recital by Mikko Koskela at the city’s main library. The Raahe Parish will also host Mother’s Day concerts at Raahe Church and the Vihanti Parish Hall.
Children can look forward to a delightful children’s concert created by Päivi and Mikko Koskela together with the music classes of Central School of Raahe. The programme also includes a history-themed lecture for seniors and author visits for schoolchildren. Dance enthusiasts can enjoy the Funky Hall spring showcase, alongside many other cultural events and concerts throughout the week.
The event is organised in collaboration by Raahe Cultural Services, the Raahe Music Institute, the Raahe Parish, and Funky Hall SODAP ry. Raahe Sounds is part of the official programme of the Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture year.
Discover the full programme: https://raahe.fi/en/oulu2026
