Oulu2026 Is a Movement to Show How Culture Can Spark Renewal
Oulu and its surrounding region will step onto the European stage as the European Capital of Culture in 2026. This brings global attention to Northern Finland. Far more than a year-long celebration, Oulu2026 is a movement. It shows how culture can spark renewal and connect communities. It strengthens resilience in Europe’s northernmost urban environment. Together with 39 municipalities, Oulu 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.
Cultural Climate Change: How Oulu2026 Channels Creativity and Tradition to Drive Transformation
Oulu is already known for its creativity and contrasts. A high-tech hub with a deep cultural heritage. A city of both midnight sun and polar night. Local traditions meet cutting-edge innovation. The Oulu2026 programme builds on this unique identity under the theme “Cultural Climate Change”.This is a call for culture to be the driver of social, ecological, and digital transformation.
From Festivals to Villages: How Oulu2026 Brings Culture to Everyone
The year will showcase hundreds of events and projects across the city and the wider region, from large-scale festivals and international exhibitions to community-led initiatives in villages and neighbourhoods. Music, visual arts, literature, theatre, and digital culture will all play a role, but Oulu2026 is equally about participation: ensuring that residents, schools, entrepreneurs, and communities are co-creators, not just audiences.
As the countdown continues, Oulu is not only preparing to host Europe, but also to inspire it — showing how culture, even in a remote northern location, can unite people, foster innovation, and shape a sustainable future.
Cruise Finland has a very good networking program going on with cruise lines and we are very confident for the future. For more information, please visit www.cruisefinland.com and find us on LinkedIn: here.
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