May Day (vappu) is one of the most anticipated events in the spring time in Finland – a mix of student traditions, festivities, fresh donuts and enjoying outdoors. If you’re in Oulu during Vappu week, here are some event tips to Oulu and our region.
The hall at Pohjankartano to be absolutely packed as Iso Ilo premieres its latest show Nature Moments (Luontohetkiä). On Vappu Eve, students invite everyone to join the Teekkaritorvet brass band for their traditional music event Spring Fling, followed by the customary Wappu procession in Oulu City centre. Also, JiiPee.art Showroom in central Oulu hosts Cosmic May Day Party, featuring blues with a fancy dress twist!
Oulainen hosts a family-friendly Vappu event bringing together live music, a lively market atmosphere and plenty of traditional treats. In Muhos, the whole family is welcome at the Koivu ja Tähti Cultural Centre to celebrate Mayt Day, where one of the highlights is a motorcycle parade arriving from Oulu. The Marttala Donut Café opens its doors in Oulu, you can stop by on Vappu Eve for traditional May day drink sima (traditional Finnish, lightly fermented and sweet lemon-flavored soft drink) along with fresh donuts.
The Vappu celebrations reach their peak on Saturday at Kemi Arena. Säkenöivä! ROCK combines the energy of rock music with the rich sound of a four-part women’s choir in a striking arena concert.
Art and culture trails await
If you want to create your own adventure, the Oulu and Oulu2026 region is filled with captivating cultural trails rich in stories, history, and art. The Oulu2026 Cultural Atlas is an interactive digital map that helps you discover routes across the city and the Oulu2026 region. Choose from urban murals, the history of tar and pop music, art and nature trails, church heritage and architecture, and much more.
