In Raahe, the end of the school year will be celebrated in a big way this year as PekkaTORILLE! is organized for the first time as part of the Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture program.
On Saturday, May 30, starting at 5 PM, Pekkatori Square will fill with music and summer vibes in the unique setting of Old Town Raahe. The event is free of charge, substance-free, open to all ages, and accessible to everyone.
Performing on the stage built at Pekkatori will be Pentti Punkin syntymäpäivät trio, local rapper Ässä J from Raahe, and the headlining act F. Between the live performances, there will be DJ music and a variety of fun activities such as face painting. Visitors can also meet and pet the Raahe therapy dogs (Raahen kaverikoirat).
After the program at the square, the evening continues at Frieman’s House (Kirkkokatu 14 A) until midnight. There will be music, hanging out, games, and socializing. Langin Kauppahuone will also be open during the event evening with extended opening hours.
How PekkaTORILLE! Was Created
The new event is organized by the City of Raahe’s youth services and cultural services.
“This kind of end-of-school celebration is being organized in Raahe for the first time – and right in the middle of historic Old Town Raahe. Pekkatori creates a unique atmosphere for the celebration that you won’t find anywhere else,” says Mari Ryönänkoski, Head of Youth Services and Youth Coordinator for the City of Raahe.
The idea for the event was born a couple of years ago when planning for the Oulu2026 program began:
“When we started planning the Capital of Culture year program together with different city departments, this was the very first idea that the Youth Services team wanted to bring to life. We felt it was important that the Oulu2026 year would also introduce new events specifically aimed at young people. At the same time, this is an invitation to all residents of Raahe as well as visitors – let’s gather at the square together to celebrate the start of summer and the end of the school year.”
For more detailed program information: raahe.fi/en/oulu2026
