Oulu named European Capital of Culture 2026

#NordicNews on Finland

Oulu will be European Capital of Culture in 2026

The city of Oulu – located in the region of North Ostrobothnia in Finland – has been selected as European Capital of Culture for 2026. The European expert jury, consisting of nine independent professionals from the field of arts and culture, announced its selection on June 2, in Helsinki.

The concept behind the Capital of Culture project of Oulu is ‘Cultural Climate Change’. The objective is to reconnect with the world and create a new way of coexistence. Through art and culture, new energies will emerge in the region to encourage cross-border cooperation.

Oulu's new cultural strategy is based on three themes: 'Wild City', 'Cool Contrasts' and 'Brave Hinterland' with focus on social, cultural, economic and environmental sustainability.

According to Antti Kurvinen, the Finnish Minister of Science and Culture, “the European Capital of Culture event is a unique opportunity to create new kinds of arts and culture, boost operating conditions and encourage people to participate in and experience arts and culture together.”

More information about the selection of Oulu as European Capital of Culture.