Barents Summer Games is approaching – competitions and side events to fill Oulu this August
The countdown to the Barents Summer Games 2026 has begun. From the 21st – 23rd of August, the event will bring together up to 800 young athletes from northern Finland, Sweden, and Norway to compete in multiple sports across the city.
The Barents Summer Games are part of a larger event week starting already on the 19th of August. Throughout the week, Oulu will offer a combination of international-level sports, opportunities for physical activity, and community experiences for people of all ages. Both spectating the competitions and attending side events are free of charge and open to the public.
A competition weekend with sharing the arctic spirit
During the competition weekend, visitors have the opportunity to watch talented young athletes compete at a high level in a variety of sports. Beyond the competitions, the Barents Summer Games celebrate cross-border cooperation, cultural exchange, and friendships between young people from across the Barents region.
The Games will officially begin with an opening ceremony on Friday, the 21st of August, bringing together athletes, organizers, and the public to celebrate the start of an exciting weekend of sport.
Side events invite everyone to get active
Alongside the competitions, side events called On PoP Liikkua goes Barents (eng. It is cool to move goes Barents) event series will take place across Oulu from the 19th – 22nd of August. Organised in cooperation with local sports clubs and partners, the events offer free opportunities to try different sports and participate in guided activities at various locations around the city.
With more than 35 local sports clubs and organisations involved, there will be plenty to choose from for participants of all ages and interests. Visitors can explore a wide variety of sports through guided try-outs and demonstrations, making it easy to discover a new hobby or activity.
A full overview of the sports and activities is available on the Reveel platform, where all activity locations can be explored on an interactive map complete with detailed descriptions and additional information. Discover the sports and activities here.
Visitors can explore new sports, take part in demonstrations, and discover local opportunities for physical activity in a welcoming and accessible environment.
The programme will culminate on Saturday, the 22nd of August, with a family-friendly sports day at Mannerheim Park. The day will include:
Local sports clubs are introducing their activities
Opportunities to try out different sports and watch performances
Activity area for small children
Hobbity rabbit is attending the event, it will play with the children and hand out stickers
An information point for the Barents Games
Other local organizations bringing joy and movement to the day
The stage program will be released in August.
The aim of the side events is to inspire people of all ages to be active and to bring the joy of sport closer to the community.
Part of the Oulu2026 cultural programme
The side events are also part of the Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture programme, combining sport, culture, and community in a unique way while bringing international visibility to the city.
Welcome to experience the Games
The Barents Summer Games offer a unique opportunity to support the next generation of athletes, experience international sporting competition, and participate in a wide range of activities throughout the city.
In August, Oulu will come alive with sport, energy, and international spirit. Everyone is welcome to join, participate, and enjoy the event.