Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026!

Meet Oulu, that quirky northern city by the sea.

This is a home of people who like to choose their own path and do things differently. We are the ones who created the modern mobile technology and are forerunners in 6G. The ones who made up the peculiar Air Guitar World Championship to promote the message of world peace, and are now nominated as European Capital of Culture 2026. In Oulu, life is an adventure, filled with rich tones of creativity and the magic of pure northern nature. We welcome everyone like an old friend, so please come and enjoy the laid-back, creative atmosphere of our beautiful seaside city.

We are building an unforgettable Capital of Culture year 2026

Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026, together with 39 municipalities. The whole Northern Finland will awaken when the cultural events bring the region to life and inspire joy and creativity in people every day. This is a journey of several years, which will culminate in 2026. We are building an unforgettable Capital of Culture year with the aim of creating a positive, lasting impact on our region. Our main goal is cultural climate change. We want to open up a new connection between people – are you ready to discover it?

See the already published programme here

Activities

How to spot Northern Lights in the Oulu area – Best tips for aurora hunters

Seeing the Northern Lights can feel like chasing a mystery, but in Oulu the odds are on your side.

Culture

8 of the most unique and surprising dining experiences in Oulu

In Oulu, you can enjoy your meal on the deck of a boat, to the beat of Caribbean rhythms, or in a historic seaside villa.

Activities

The ultimate Nordic experience – Discover Oulu’s sauna rafts

Oulu’s floating saunas carry you into the heart of the Oulujoki River scenery.

Christmas Magic in Oulu: Experience the Best of a Finnish Christmas 2025

Christmas 2025 is just around the corner, and Oulu’s holiday festivities kick off in November. Whether you’re looking for traditional Christmas events and concerts, winter activities, or Christmas treats, this guide covers all the must-see events and tips for a magical Christmas season in Oulu. Read on to discover the experiences awaiting you in Oulu this holiday season!

Experience the Best of a Finnish Christmas 2025

What to see and do in Oulu? Find your next adventure in our online shop!

From fatbike tours and bike rentals to guided safaris, excursions, and unique local activities — you’ll find it all easily in Visit Oulu’s online shop! Whether you prefer exploring Oulu’s nature and cityscapes on your own or joining a guided adventure with an expert local guide, you can book your experiences quickly and securely online.

Looking for a memorable gift? Surprise someone special with a gift card for Oulu experiences — or perhaps a magical forest walk with alpacas!

Visit the online shop

Oulu is buzzing with unforgettable events

Events in Oulu are just like the locals: authentic, creative, community-minded, easy-going — and delightfully a little weird. But hey, that’s what makes them special! Oulu is a buzzing city of events where something fun is always happening. From food and art festivals to concerts, light spectacles, and the world-famous Air Guitar World Championships, there’s always a reason to join the fun.

Oulu happens!

Discover sauna the Oulu way

In Oulu, sauna isn’t just a tradition — it’s a lifestyle with a splash of northern attitude. Float down the river on a steaming sauna raft, sweat it out by the sea, or sink your toes into Hailuoto sand between sessions. Wherever you steam, chill, or dip, one thing’s certain — Oulu knows how to turn up the heat in true Finnish style.

Sustainability

Travel Responsibly in Oulu and Pohjola Route

Day trip from Oulu? Start your adventure on the Pohjola Route

Oulu is the perfect place to start your road trip along the Pohjola Route, where you can experience all of Finland in miniature! Along this unforgettable journey, you’ll find the sea, archipelago, soft sandy beaches, forests, lakes, and fells — plus charming fishing villages, idyllic countryside, and hidden northern gems filled with cozy restaurants, attractions, and events.
Hike through the Syöte, Rokua, and Bothnian Bay National Parks, sail on an icebreaker in Kemi, explore the unique charm of Hailuoto Island, and stroll through the historic streets of Old Raahe and Old Ii.

These are just a few highlights waiting along the Pohjola Route — a road trip loved by nature lovers, culture seekers, families, and anyone who wants to explore the authentic spirit of northern Finland.