The Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture year opened in Raahe with a spectacular celebration – and it will also come to a spectacular close here! From 9–13 December, a five-day festival programme will offer activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. The programme includes family-friendly Christmas events, hands-on activities for children, metal music, Jussi’s Christmas Celebration, the final concert of the Raahe Music Institute, lectures and much more.

Events will take place across the city, from Old Town Raahe and the Sovelius House to Koivuluoto Arena, Raahe Event House, Raahe Church, the Main Library, the Old Seminary Area, and Kuntokeidas Vesipekka.

The closing week is organized through extensive cooperation between various departments of the City of Raahe and local cultural organizations, reflecting the strong sense of community that has characterised the entire Oulu2026 year.

Highlights of the closing week programme include:
• Merchant's Christmas at Sovelius House 9-18 December
• Traditional Anna’s Day celebrations across the city on Wednesday, 9 December
• JP Leppäluoto's Christmas Concert at Raahe Event House on Wednesday evening, 9 December
• Stormy Sounds metal music event at Koivuluoto Arena on Friday, 11 December
• Christmas at Seminar at the Old Seminary Area on Saturday, 12 December
• Children’s activity events at the Main Library and Vesipekka Swimming and Sport Centre on Saturday, 12 December
• Jussi’s Christmas Celebration at Koivuluoto Arena on Saturday, 12 December
• The Oulu2026 Closing Concert organized by the Raahe Music Institute at Raahe Church on Sunday afternoon, 13 December
• Kauneimmat joululaulut (“The Most Beautiful Christmas Carols”) at Raahe Church on Sunday evening, 13 December

The event is part of the official Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture programme.

Culture