Kuopio Dance Festival 8.-14.6.2026!
Kuopio Dance Festival, now celebrating its 57th edition, once again transforms the entire city into a grand stage for dance from 8–14 June 2026.
For one week, Kuopio becomes a meeting place for dance lovers, professionals and enthusiasts from around the world, all drawn in by a rich program built around the art of movement.
The festival features an impressive selection of performances by top international and Finnish companies, curated by the festival’s Artistic Director Kenneth Kvarnström. Alongside the main program, visitors can enjoy a wide range of courses, camps, seminars, free‑entry events and many other dance‑filled experiences that bring the city to life every June.
Kuopio dances as one — and this year brings an abundance of free performances, events and experiences for everyone to enjoy
During the festival week, our dance city comes alive with a wide range of free‑entry events, courses, camps, seminars and dance activities for enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. The program invites everyone — from first‑timers to experienced dancers — to step into the joy of movement.
Highlights of the free program include:
- Dance Marathon, Mon 8.6. at 12:00–15:30, Shopping Center Minna
- Carnival Parade, Mon 8.6. at 19-20, starting from the Kulttuuriareena 44 courtyard
- Latin Party, Mon 8.6. at 20 and Evening Clubs every night until 14.6. in Circus Live
- Dance Challenge, Tue 9.6. at 18-19, Circus Live
- Seminar: Science Moment – Dancer’s Wellbeing, Wed 10.6. at 14-15.30, Circus Live
- Kuopio – City of Dance Day, Thu 11.6. at 13:00–21:30, Circus Live
- Street Dance Event: Amfijamit, Sat 13.6. at 13-22, Circus Live
- Elämänlämpö Afternoon Dance, Sun 14.6. at 15-17, Circus Live
Explore the full festival program: Kuopio Dance Festival
