World-class experiences near, far and everywhere in between. Welcome to an inspiring celebration of Nordic and European culture!
On this page, you’ll find the latest updates of Oulu2026 programme. Scroll down to learn how you can get involved and be part of European Capital of Culture 2026!
Oulu is the European Capital of Culture 2026 – see the already published programme here
The Year Changes: Oulu2026
Pre-Party for the European Capital of Culture Year at Ouluhalli on December 31, 2025!
The Year Changes: Oulu2026 show will set the atmosphere on fire as we step into our Capital of Culture year. Expect explosive energy, a visual spectacle, sparkle, and joy – not to mention top-tier domestic artists. The show’s lineup will be announced in the spring.
Blind Bird Tickets Now on Sale!
A limited batch of special-priced Blind Bird tickets is available for €39.
A service fee from Lippu.fi will be added to the ticket price (starting from €1.50 + 0.65% per order). Be among the first to get your ticket and secure your spot at this unforgettable party!
Tickets are available at Lippu.fi.
Oulu2026 Opening Festival 16–18 January 2026
Enchanting winter magic and urban cultural experiences
Oulu’s entire city centre will be transformed into a captivating festival village. Across diverse programme areas, both indoors and outdoors, visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of experiences, from stunning visual art installations to music, theatre, performances, and exhibitions.
A diverse range of activities will be available from Friday to Sunday, allowing you to join the European Capital of Culture Opening Festival at your own pace.
Read more
Arctic Food Lab
Local flavours from the North
Arctic Food Lab is the official brand of the Oulu2026 region, showcasing the purity and uniqueness of the northern nature. Arctic ingredients are given new life in the hands of local masters, transforming into high-quality products and unforgettable experiences.
The main Arctic Food Lab events include Kesäillan kattaus and Makuseikkailu. In addition, hundreds of other food-centered events are being planned.
You can find plenty of additional information about events, the brand, products, and services on the Arctic Food Lab website.
Arctic Food Lab
Climate Clock
Public art trail in Oulu featuring world-renowned artists
Climate Clock is one of the most significant productions of the Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture year, where art intertwines with science and nature to inspire environmental awareness and reconnect us with nature’s time. Six permanent artworks will be located in Haukipudas, Kiiminki, Oulu city centre, Oulunsalo, Yli-Ii, and Ylikiiminki. Alongside these permanent artworks is The Most Valuable Clock in the World, a new artwork co-created with the local communities by renowned artists Tellervo Kalleinen and Oliver Kochta-Kalleinen.
Get to know the Climate Clock artists
Fotografiska Tallinn x Oulu2026
Fotografiska Tallinn meets Oulu2026 in a group exhibition designed for the European Capital of Culture
Fotografiska Tallinn brings a photo exhibition to Finland for the first time. The brand new exhibition is inspired by the theme of Cultural Climate Change, invites us to see beyond the ordinary, to connect in deeper ways, and to envision a future where creativity and community are at the forefront. Fotografiska exhibition at Pekuri Center is a destination to discover world class photography and surprising new perspectives during 2026.
Fotografiska is the contemporary museum of photography, art & culture, founded in Stockholm in 2010. Fotografiska creates dynamic and unique exhibitions spanning different genres in surprising environments.
Read more
Lumo Art & Tech
The brilliance of art and technology in Oulu
The Lumo Art & Tech Festival will expand in November 2026, centering around the much-loved light festival, bringing together art and technology in a spectacular way. This exciting event will put Oulu on the map as a leading Northern European city for art and technology.
The festival will welcome creative professionals from the digital art and technology sectors worldwide, with a range of seminars, conferences, and other inspiring events. Oulu offers a wealth of artistic experiences, as well as ample opportunities for networking. Audiences will be fully immersed in the fascinating world where art and technology intersect.
Photo: Kansallisgalleria | Finnish National Gallery / Pirje MykkänenMedia Art from Kiasma
The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma in Helsinki will curate an exhibition of media art from the collections of the Finnish National Gallery.
The Media Art from Kiasma exhibition will open in the exhibition spaces of Oulu City Hall in January 2026. The exhibition is suitable for all ages and is free of charge and accessible.
Photo: The Finnish National Gallery / Pirje Mykkänen
Layers in the Peace Machine
What builds peace?
Layers in The Peace Machine is an immersive and multidisciplinary media-installation, entangling technology and art. Based on the literary work ”Peace Machine” by late Timo Honkela, the installation portrays peace as a dynamic process, that shifts and evolves with the interaction from the participants.
Transforming multiple spaces at the Oulu City Hall, the artwork sheds light on the multifaceted concept of “building peace”. It offers diverse means to interact with the installation and other participants, through language, movement, senses and cognition.
The installation will be free of charge and open from January to December 2026.
Read more
Risku
The traditions and the culture of the Sámi people, the only indigenous people in the European Union will be showcased in a wide range of public events and activities throughout the European Capital of Culture year.
The annual highlight is the Sámi National Day on February 6th.
Get to know Risku
A good accommodation is the base for a cultural journey
Do you want to sleep soundly by the sea or right in the heart of Oulu’s city center? Choose from a variety of high-quality, affordable, and nature-close options! A great base makes it easy to head out for a day of immersing yourself in culture. Whether it’s a room, cabin, or even a tent – your toothbrush will tell you where your temporary fortress is located.
Explore accommodation
Culture and Culinary Arts
A successful culinary experience not only satisfies the taste buds but also delights the eyes, ears, nose, and soul. A “Känkky” (or pizza, as it’s called in Oulu) never disappoints, and the boldest try the traditional rössypottu! Restaurants in Oulu offer everything from five-star fine dining to relaxed coffee moments, artisan pizza, and traditional Finnish cuisine.
Explore Oulu's restaurants