Entertainment
Get the groove on for party mood – the entertainment scene in Oulu has a higher grade of specialty. Break a sweat in the sports field or on the dancefloor. There is plenty to see and do 365 days a year, from second-hand stores to music shows and good drinks to enjoying a delicious meal.
Karaoke, gigs, bowling, first-class sports, a plentiful picnic with buddies – Oulu offers the playground for fun-packed moments by yourself or with friends. And since we have the nature present even in the city centre, the setting for events and activities is picturesque.
More information about leisure opportunities in Oulu
Although there are a lot of high-quality restaurants in the urban city centre, the estuary and shores in Oulu offer wonderful locations for having fun, too. The lovely granaries of the Market Square and close-by buildings exemplifying the architecture of various periods constitute an entertainment hub that will not leave you hungry or thirsty. If you cross the bridge to the charming Pikisaari Island, you will find even more restaurants and bars.
Winebar Kurkela – have a glass of wine in Pikisaari (opens in a new tab)
Restaurant Mallassauna – local beer, food, and experiences (opens in a new tab)
Uleåborg 1881 – gastronomy from Finland and beyond (opens in a new tab)
Historic Oulu Market Hall – food and shopping (opens in a new tab)
Restaurant Hugo – an edgy, relaxed wine bar and restaurant (opens in a new tab)
Restaurant Nallikari – for the best sea view (opens in a new tab)
Enjoy the city centre
The Oulu city centre is home to many kinds of activities. The restaurants, bars, and cafés cater for the tastes of all grown-ups. The pedestrian street Rotuaari houses all kinds of events throughout the year. The centre also has legendary music venues as well as locations for other interesting acts – such as theatre or stand-up comedy shows.
Oulu Theatre – see the programme here (opens in a new tab)
Valkea Shopping Centre – shopping and events in the indoor street (opens in a new tab)
RioLive – brilliant shows every week (opens in a new tab)
45 Special – the oldest rock club in northern Finland (opens in a new tab)
Alfred Kitchen & Bar – tasty food in a cozy atmosphere (opens in a new tab)
Puistola – an oasis for gourmands from morning till evening (opens in a new tab)
Leskinen – a public house in the heart of the city (opens in a new tab)
Jumpru – legendary pub, restaurant and night club (opens in a new tab)
Break a sweat at the hockey arena or a rock show
Very near the city centre, there are other fantastic venues for bigger shows and sports events. Raksila and Limingantulli will satisfy even the demanding concert visitor or sports fan.
Kuusisaari Event Park – the number one place for outdoor events (opens in a new tab)
Tullisali is the home of events – see the programme (opens in a new tab)
Catch all the games of Oulun Kärpät hockey team at Oulun Energia Areena
Play ball sports at Nallisport – read more (opens in a new tab)
Oulu Hall, the largest event venue in Northern Finland – read more (opens in a new tab)
Best places in the parks
Perhaps the most wonderful thing about Oulu is that parks extend all the way to the city centre – with excellent venues for various events around them! Gigs, art exhibitions, brunches, restaurant terraces… Discover the best activities for all seasons in these lush surroundings! And in case you feel like arranging your own activities in the summertime, the Hupisaaret Islands provide the best greenspace in the north from sports to picnics!
Visit the City of Oulu Sport Services website for various fitness activities (opens in a new tab)
Oulu Museum and Science Centre Luuppi showcases arts and science (opens in a new tab)