Introducing the Most Extraordinary Summer Events in the Oulu2026 region

Yoga surrounded by cows and round-the-clock pancake festivities? Throughout the summer, the Oulu2026 region offers one delightfully original event after another. Grab a friend or a family member and head out for a summer day guaranteed to make you smile.

The European Capital of Culture year offers a wide range of summer activities in Oulu and its partner municipalities, with something for food lovers, art enthusiasts and those who enjoy staying active.

From chainsaw sculptures to Manly Hairy Worlds

The Oulu2026 region hosts a wide variety of art events and exhibitions throughout the summer.

Would you like to explore Manly Hairy Worlds? Photographer Kenneth Bamberg’s exhibition Cursed Crown is on display at the Vilho Lampi Museum in Liminka until 12 July. Through his work, Bamberg explores the different stages and nuances of masculinity, highlighting its diversity. Read more: Manliga håriga världar – Manly Hairy Worlds – Miesten karvaiset maailmat

In Lumijoki, visitors can admire chainsaw sculptures created by artist Heikki Laurila. Located in the municipal park on Myllytie, the Chainsaw Sculpture Park features as many as 41 of Laurila’s works. Admission is free, making it an ideal destination for a summer picnic. The park is open around the clock throughout the European Capital of Culture year. Read more: Chainsaw Sculpture Park, Lumijoki

This summer, Hyrynsalmi offers a unique opportunity to spend the night inside a work of art. Michaela Casková’s artwork BnB (Bed in Barn) welcomes overnight guests, offering a truly one-of-a-kind art experience. The artwork accommodates two guests at a time, with stays lasting one night. A night in the artwork makes for a memorable stop on a summer road trip. Read more: Book an overnight stay in an artwork!

A new sport and yoga with cows

Summer also brings opportunities to enjoy exercise and try something completely new.

Pudasjärvi will host a sporting performance that pushes the boundaries of traditional ball games. In this first-ever Air Baseball match, the familiar sport takes on new dimensions through creativity and imagination. Visitors can watch the spectacular launch of Air Baseball on Saturday, 18 July, at Jyrkkäkoski Recreation Centre. Read more: Air baseball

In Sievi, yoga takes place in a rural farm setting. Yoga with cows and the Day on the Countryside event, held in Kukonkylä, will kick off Sievi Week in a relaxed atmosphere on Sunday, 12 July. This family-friendly event offers visitors the chance to meet farm animals, explore the farm buildings and enjoy a calming yoga session in the company of gentle cows. Read more: Yoga with cows and a day in the countryside

Rönttönen pastries and pancake baking

The European Capital of Culture programme also offers memorable experiences for food lovers.

At the Thin Pancake Festival in Pudasjärvi, participants will bake and enjoy traditional Finnish pancakes continuously for 24 hours. Pancake baking begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, 11 July, and ends at the same time on Sunday, 12 July. Visitors can look forward to delicious treats and enjoyable time together. Read more: Thin pancake festival

On Saturday, 15 August, a kilometre-long table will be set up in the centre of Oulu as the Summer Evening Feast invites people to gather for a shared dinner. This communal food event celebrates good food, company, and the atmosphere of a summer evening. Both locals and visitors come together along the long table to enjoy an unforgettable summer night. Read more: Summer Night’s Dinner

The World Championships of rönttönen crimping will take place in Kuhmo on Saturday, 4 July. The event celebrates Kainuu’s culinary heritage through light-hearted competition. Held at Kuhmo Market Square, the competition also offers visitors a chance to taste rönttönen while learning the crimping technique. Read more: The World Championships of Rönttönen Crimping and a Celebration of Kuhmo Cuisine

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