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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 events!

Programme highlights

More events

Coming up

The Logos

A year-long immersive sound installation transforming more than 4,000 cosmic signals into spatial audio opens on Easter Sunday inside Oulu Cathedral.
Read more

The northern summer everyone
is talking about

On the northern coast of Finland, the vibrant seaside city of Oulu invites you to experience a summer where world-class art, unforgettable festivals and beautiful northern nature come together. 
See the events

PLAY – Fotografiska Tallinn X Oulu2026

14 Jan – 31 Dec
Oulu
Fotografiska Tallinn brings a photography exhibition to Finland for the very first time! The high-quality exhibition is inspired by the Oulu2026 main theme, cultural climate change.
Read more & buy tickets

Layers in the Peace Machine

14 Jan – 31 Dec
Oulu City Hall
The multi-part, immersive installation by Ekho Collective sheds light on different aspects of building peace. Book your entry-free ticket to visit exhibition.
Read more

News

In the Voice the Taboo project, mental health taboos are made visible through artistic means.

Making mental health taboos visible in the Oulu2026 year – open workshops and events invite people in Oulu interested in mental health, well-being, and the arts to take part.

From our programme partners
Photos from Fukui prefecture by Sanna Krook and Domina Jackuliaková

Japan Through European Eyes

From our programme partners
Ida Elina ( kantele) and Teija Niku ( accordion) performing in front of the Rathbun-Jones Engine in The Cultural Heritage Center in Oulainen. Photo by Minna Kesti.

Oulu2026 opening celebration was a joint event between Oulainen and Haapavesi

From our programme partners
Vaara-kollektiivi

LIGHT AND RESISTANCE Ecological themes and performing arts on Ärjänsaari in Oulujärvi 24-26.7.2026

From our programme partners
More news
Aerial view of Oulu city centre in winter.

Welcome to Oulu!

Planning to visit us? Find out how to travel to Oulu, where to book accommodation, and which exciting events are in store for 2026.

Plan your visit

Oulu2026 Merch available!

Find the coolest clothing and accessories for every season from our online store

Visit our store
man standing on a green field

Like Finland in miniature

Together with 39 municipalities, Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026. 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 & events
Rautatieasema junilla ja matkustajilla lumisena päivänä.
Kaleva Media logo
Piparkakkutalo ja joulupukki joulukoristeena
Käsivarsinauhalla kävelijä yöllä metsässä
Mustavalkoinen kuva autotallista ja autosta
Osuuskauppa Arinan vihreä logo
Piparkakkutalo ja joulupukki joulukoristeena
Käsivarsinauhalla kävelijä yöllä metsässä
Mustavalkoinen kuva autotallista ja autosta
Osuuskauppa Arinan vihreä logo
Piparkakkutalo ja joulupukki joulukoristeena
Käsivarsinauhalla kävelijä yöllä metsässä
Mustavalkoinen kuva autotallista ja autosta
Osuuskauppa Arinan vihreä logo
Piparkakkutalo ja joulupukki joulukoristeena
Käsivarsinauhalla kävelijä yöllä metsässä
Mustavalkoinen kuva autotallista ja autosta
Osuuskauppa Arinan vihreä logo

See also

Welcome to OuluPlan your stay
Frequently Asked QuestionsOulu2026 facts in a nutshell
Oulu2026 TeamContact our staff