Brave Hinterland
You need to be brave to live here. Brave too to pack up and leave, starting a new life elsewhere. But even braver to stay and try to change things.
Far away from everything, on the periphery of Europe we face an uncompromising nature, extreme climate (change), enormous distances and wild vastness, excessive light and excessive darkness. Only a few in Europe are willing to live with extreme hardship and extreme beauty.
Yet Europe is much more than just its geographical core. We want Europe to get excited by its edges in 2026!
Finally, actual Climate Change impacts us more visibly here than almost anywhere else in Europe with biodiversity already significantly diminished. The global response to climate change has so far been too timid. We explore this topic in our theme Brave Hinterland.
Programme Lines
Each of the three programme themes include programme lines which enable us to group connected projects together to maximise synergy and impact.
Between East and West
Oulu exploring its roots and the routes linking it to Europe. These routes shaped the identity, cultural and societal development of the city and deserve exploring.
Naturally Art
Pulsing forces of the North – Nature and Art. With the growing focus on climate change, we cannot ignore or deny nature’s forces – whether you live in Oulu region or on the southernmost shores of Europe. We wish to showcase our region’s traditional engagement with nature reminding us how it enriches our lives, sharing
its vibrant inspiration with a broader Europe.
Northern Vibes
We do things differently here. We sit in hot saunas and then dive into frozen waters. We cycle on our bikes in minus 25-degrees Celsius. It’s an everyday experience for us, but a surprise to most of the rest of the world. Having fun in the snow hides a deeper message about the sensitivity and disappearance of our traditional habitat. Join us on a journey through our unique way of living and learn to appreciate winter’s natural wonders!
Latest
Long Table Picnic in the Oulu Arts’ Night
Come and feel the atmosphere and culture of the city at the common dining table in Mannerheim park in the Oulu Arts’ Night on August 17. from 18:00 to 20:00.
The importance of home economics education is growing
In Finland, the basic education system is known for its quality and versatile teaching offer. One key part of this education is home economics education, which provides students with everyday life skills they will need in the future. Home economics is a...
Programme Peek: AaltoSiilo
The Program Peek is an article series where, as the name suggests, we take a sneak peek into the cultural programme of Oulu2026, the European Capital of Culture. The series provides small glimpses of what's to come and highlights interesting aspects. As the year 2026...
The district vote on this year’s mural is underway
Upeart, a Finnish public art professional, is involved in our cultural program with the “Joy from Urban contemporary art” -project, which produces mural artworks around the Oulu area. Voting is open for the location of this year’s Oulu2026-mural! The residents of Oulu...
62 new projects for Oulu2026 culture programme
Oulu is a European Capital of Culture in 2026. The Oulu2026 culture programme in 39 municipalities is realised by local, national and international actors. The programme in Oulu is coordinated and managed by the Oulu Culture Foundation. The Foundation provides...
Which Northern Story You Would Like to Hear?
Northern Stories-project develops new ways of bringing stories to their authentic locations using technology. The aim of the project is to create several themed routes with user-friendly mobile technology. We are mapping and collecting the stories around local...
Screaming Duende at the AaltoSiilo June 3rd
The Factum Foundation and AaltoSiilo are organizing the Screaming Duende event in Meri-Toppila, Oulu on June 3rd. The event is a world premiere of pairing the radical flamenco master Israel Galván and Huutajat (Screaming Men) Choir. The event is a central part of the...
Oulu2026 Stage at Qstock – free entry!
The Qstock Festival in Oulu stretches partly over three days this year, for music on the Oulu2026 Stage starts already on Thursday, 27 July. The stage moves to a new location in Linnansaari island, and entry to the island will be free throughout the festival. As...
Cultural Diversity Seminar
You are invited to the Cultural Diversity Seminar being held at Cultural Centre Valve, on 16th May. This event is being offered in celebration of The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. In this seminar we will learn about and discuss...
Wild Herb Celebration 10.6.2023
Wild herb celebration is a summery happening in a cozy park presenting natural products, taste, and experience. June is the time for wild herbs to be at its best.