The Night of the Arts brings a citywide cultural celebration to Vaasa – with over 170 contributors involved

This year, around 170 contributors from across Vaasa are taking part in the Night of the Arts. The event offers culture, art and unforgettable experiences for all ages – including the traditional Night of the Arts parade, which brings colour and dance to the city streets.

This year, Vähäkyrö is participating more actively than ever before, with local programme contributions from the Vähäkyrö village association, the local parish and Kolkki Manor. Visitors can also enjoy musical performances on the river ferry.

– We are happy to see that the local community has been active in organising various events in their area, says the event’s producer Geir Byrkjeland, who thanks all the contributors involved once again in creating this shared celebration.

Culture, music and open doors

On the Night of the Arts, many cultural institutions open their doors to the public free of charge. The Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art and the Ostrobothnian Museum offer free admission from 15–21. Vaasa City Theatre will open its autumn season, with free entry at 18 and 20. The Main Library offers a diverse programme including music, art exhibitions, the theatre performance Ukrainian Voices, and improvisation by Intopiukeat.

Music can be heard on many stages across the city. Local bands will perform on the Market Square Stage, at Ritz, and on the Volume stage at the Culture House Fanny, featuring many new names from the local music scene. Robin Rekku and the Jekku Orchestra will entertain the little ones at Vaasa Church, performing in Finnish from 17–17.45 and in Swedish from 18.30–19.15 (as Robin Hund och hans glada orkester). As in previous years, the Vaasa City Orchestra will perform at the Rewell Shopping Centre from 18–19. A new highlight will be a concert ensemble formed of Radio Vaasa staff, created to celebrate the station’s 40th anniversary from 19.45–20.15.

Parade featuring dance and national costumes

The traditional Night of the Arts parade brings festive cheer and dance rhythms to the streets. The parade will start at 19 from Vaasa Town Hall and proceed along Senaatinkatu and the Hovioikeudenpuistikko promenade, finishing at the Market Square.

Twelve performing groups will take part in the parade, including Samba Energia feat. Samba Tropical, Peurat Ajovaloissa, Tanssiurheiluseura Vaasan Viuhka, Tanssiurheiluseura Rolling, Vaasan Nepali ry and Wasa Flamenco as well as Kansallispukutuulettajat – Folkdräktsvädrare and Föreningen Brage i Vasa r.f., showcasing the the national costumes and wedding traditions of the Swedish-speaking community.

Community art at the Market Square

At the Market Square, the public can take part in creating a piece of community art. The art project is part of Stormossen’s 40th anniversary celebrations and is open to all. Overall, The Market Square will feature a wide variety of live music and dance performances during the Night of the Arts.

Program for the Night of the Arts 2025