Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026

Culture, art and a wide range of events as well as world-class experiences from near and far are taking over our northern region. See the programme.

Oulu2026 Festivals – The brightest gems of our northern region

Electronic music on top of the hill, retro tractors, Pessimism musical, Air Guitar World Championships.. these are only few of the unique festivals Oulu2026 region has to offer!

Kuvassa Kos Mos yhtye esiintymässä Oulu2026-lavalla Qstockissa

News

Summer Night’s Dinner returns this August – you can now propose content for the event

16.6.2025

All summer activities are part of the official Oulu2026 Culture Programme

13.6.2025

From our programme partners

Sannu Vaarala and Elina Tähtelä/ Joining Walls -community art workshops/ working group picture/ Photo by Sannu Vaarala and Elina Tähtelä

Joining Walls -workshops

12.6.2025

From our programme partners

Group smiling in front of Tartu 2024 backdrop

Nine-country cooperation project strengthens the legacy of European Capitals of Culture beyond the title year

10.6.2025

More news

Nuoria autoharrastajia. Kuvaaja: Harri Tarvainen.

Be part of our 2026 programme!

Oulu is European Capital of Culture in 2026 – and you can be a part of it! Whether you’re a group of friends, an association, or a public organization, this is your chance to apply and bring your creative ideas to life.

We are the culture – Open Call application period
2nd Sept 2024 to 31st Aug 2025.

We are the Culture Open Call

Like Finland in miniature

Together with 39 municipalities, Oulu is the European Capital of Culture. Our wonderful region provides a versatile range of events of different sizes and styles, for their creators and visitors. There are cities and villages, parks and paths, and lovely nature nearby almost everywhere.

Explore Oulu2026 Region

A sneak peek of our programme