European Capital of Culture year in Ii will present a unique blend of contemporary art and northern landscape alongside with events that showcase the living cultural heritage of the region.
The theme of the Oulu2026 -program is Cultural Climate Change. The municipality of Ii is participating in the European Capital of Culture year program together with Oulu and 32 other northern municipalities.
The events in Ii include:
Art Ii Biennial 2026
“Building in the landscape”
The environmental art event Art Ii Biennial will be held from June 11 to July 31, 2026. In 2026, the Art Ii Biennial will spread into the riverscape. The theme of the event is the transformation of the landscape and solastalgia.
Art Ii Biennial is a cultural gem of Northern Finland, attracting visitors from around the world to experience a unique blend of contemporary art set in the harsh northern landscape. Held in the municipality Ii, which is known for its climate actions.
Nights of Art and Culture – a program of art, music, theatre and literature in the August evenings
“The cultural landscape through arts”
The Ii Nights of Art and Culture will be held from August 19 to 23, 2026. The event presents various artists and art works in places like KulttuuriKauppila Art Center, Taitotalo, Kulttuurikoti Salmela and Ii Library. Performances will also take place in Iin Ranta-Kestilä. Expect art, music, and literature from us and around the world. The Oulu Muse Festival collaborates as a partner for the visiting authors.The theme for the 2026 event will be children and childlike spirits. The event is free to attend!
Uittoviikko 2026 – Traditions and Experiences in Ii
“Cultural Heritage in the riverscape”
Uittoviikko, held in Ii from June 29 to July 5, 2026, brings together traditions, culture, and summer experiences. This week-long event series will take place across several venues in the municipality, offering a diverse program. Highlights include timber floating (log driving) competitions, concerts, theatre performances, dances, and local traditional foods – something for the whole family to enjoy.
Uittoviikko is organized by local associations in Ii, who together showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and strong sense of community. The event provides a unique opportunity to explore the history of timber floating and the way of life in Ii, all while enjoying the summer atmosphere by the shores of the Bothnian Bay.
You can find more events in Ii at the address https://ii.fi/oulu2026 and in the Ii municipality’s event calendar IiKalenteri. All events in the cultural capital year region can be found in the Oulu2026 event calendar: Oulu2026 Culture Programme
See you in Ii!