Kuopio Dance Festival is the largest and most diverse international dance event in the Nordic countries. It is a true celebration of dance, bringing world-class performances and some of the summer’s most memorable cultural experiences to Kuopio for over a week. The festival takes place annually in June.

Each year, the high-quality program attracts professionals, enthusiasts, and first-time visitors from Finland and abroad. The program features magnificent dance performances, a wide range of free-entry events, courses, camps, and seminars.

The festival can be seen and felt throughout the city – from theatre stages to shopping centers, and from the market square to the streets.

The festival’s lineup for summer 2026 is exceptional: one of the world’s leading dance companies, GöteborgsOperans Danskompani, will perform in Kuopio with works by four internationally acclaimed choreographers: Sharon Eyal, Hofesh Shechter, Botis Seva and Marcos Morau.

The programme will also feature the beloved Gala, which includes several short pieces, as well as a performance by the Finnish National Opera and Ballet Ballet School.

Welcome to enjoy dance and culture in Kuopio!