Article categories: News
Vaasa celebrates its Green Leaf year together with international guests
Published: 10.3.2026
Vaasa will celebrate the opening of its European Green Leaf Year together with international guests at EnergyWeek, which is also one of the main events of the anniversary year. Throughout EnergyWeek, festive green lighting will illuminate the city, and a brand-new EnergyWeek for NextGen science exhibition will bring the energy theme to younger residents as well.
On Thursday 19 March, the official international opening ceremony of Vaasa’s European Green Leaf Year 2026 will take place as part of the EnergyWeek programme. The day will feature success stories from Vaasa, expert insights from the European Commission, and presentations highlighting solutions from pioneering cities working toward sustainable urban development and the energy transition.
The event will be opened by Finland’s Minister for European Affairs and Ownership Steering Joakim Strand. Speakers include, among others, Patrick Child, Deputy Director-General at the European Commission, and Tomas Häyry, Mayor of Vaasa. Music will be provided by Vaasa-born artist Oneviolin, and the programme also includes an energetic performance by the dance school Kipinä.
Guests explore Vaasa’s energy and sustainability expertise
EnergyWeek will draw visitors from the European Commission, the networks of European Green Leaf and European Green Capital cities, as well as specialists from across Europe who work to promote low-carbon cities. The programme includes company visits to Wärtsilä’s Sustainable Technology Hub, Westenergy, M/S Aurora Botnia, and an excursion to the Kvarken Archipelago.
– All these are important examples of Vaasa’s expertise in environmental matters, sustainable development and energy – the very strengths that led the European Commission to grant us the valuable European Green Leaf Award, says Suvi Aho, Strategy Manager for the City of Vaasa.
EnergyWeek is the most significant energy‑sector event in the Nordic countries, bringing industry experts, companies and innovations from around the world to Vaasa. Once again, thousands of visitors are expected. In addition to EU guests, the city will also host eight ambassadors and eight international journalists.
Science experiences for children
As part of Vaasa’s Green Leaf year, the EnergyWeek for NextGen event will be organised for the first time for children and young people. The interactive science exhibition is designed for school groups in Vaasa.
On Saturday 21 March, residents will also have the opportunity to explore the exhibition at the Espen shopping centre between 10:00–16:00. Entry is free of charge.
More information: https://www.energyweek.fi/energyweek2026-for-kids/
Green lighting to welcome visitors
During EnergyWeek, the Replot Bridge and the Vetokannas overpass will be illuminated in green to honour the Green Leaf year. The lighting symbolises Vaasa’s commitment to sustainable development and will be visible to both residents and visitors throughout the week.
Vaasa is the European Green Leaf City for 2026. The European Commission awards this recognition annually to cities that promote sustainable development and demonstrate determined work for the environment and climate. Vaasa is the northernmost Green Leaf city in Europe and the third city in Finland to receive the title.