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Oulu2026 Stage Lineup announced for Qstock

The artists performing on the Oulu2026 Stage at Qstock have been selected. The Oulu2026 Stage presents talent from the European Capital of Culture 2026 region. The audience can enjoy the versatile selection of artists free of charge in Linnansaari, Oulu, on July 25–26.

On Friday, the Oulu2026 Stage will feature modern indie-pop artist Lydian, Northern Sámi rock band Ravggon, metal newcomer Tempera from Pyhäjärvi, and Finnish rapper Naike, who recently released his debut album.

Saturday’s lineup includes the atmospheric folk-inspired Havut, promising indie rock band Neon Puutarha from Raahe, philosophical hardcore-punk act Seurat, and Oulun_Keskusta, a punk-jazz fusion band with two saxophones leading the charge.

In addition, the stage will welcome an artist from Slovakia, home to Trenčín, the other European Capital of Culture in 2026. Representing Slovakia is SJU, a playful electronic music artist.

The detailed schedule for the Oulu2026 Stage will be announced in May. Once again, interest in performing on the Oulu2026 Stage was high, with 149 applications submitted through the open call.

According to Oulu2026 Program Manager Henri Turunen, the level of applicants was, as usual, very high, leaving many great bands outside the final selection.

“There are many unique artists in various genres in the region. While the number of bands we can accommodate on the Oulu2026 Stage is quite limited, there will be additional performance opportunities at other events related to the European Capital of Culture,” Turunen adds.

Oulu2026 actively promotes visibility for Oulu-based and regional bands both locally and at international showcase festivals. The Oulu2026 Stage at Qstock plays a crucial role in this effort.

Check out the lineup announced so far: programme