Aaltoja! Kotka light and sound festival 2026

Aaltoja! is a free urban festival for all ages celebrating light, sound and art in the city of Kotka. The festival takes place from 15–17 October 2026, transforming the city into an immersive experience of light installations, sound art, performances and live music.

The heart of the festival is an annual outdoor art trail featuring contemporary light and sound artworks by artists from Finland and abroad. In 2026, the trail runs through Kotka city centre and is open daily from 6 pm to 10 pm.

The festival is organised by the City of Kotka in collaboration with local artists, cultural organisations and community partners.

Art Trail

The 2026 art trail features 13 light, sound and audiovisual installations presented in parks, streets, public buildings and cultural venues across Kotkansaari.

The artworks explore a wide range of themes, including:

• Nature and climate change.
• Urban environments and hidden city sounds.
• Human relationships and memory.
• Light pollution and biodiversity.
• Encounters with the unknown.
• Technology, society and the future.

Visitors can experience immersive sound installations, architectural projections, interactive light artworks and site-specific performances while discovering Kotka’s cityscape after dark.

The route begins at Palotorninvuori Park and ends near Toivo Pekkanen School.

Festival Clubs

Each evening concludes with a free live music event

Thursday 15 October

Forces (Joonas Siren) Experimental electronic music and algorithmic soundscapes. Venue: Soittoruokala Karoliina (18+).

Friday 16 October

Modem Acclaimed Finnish synth-pop duo combining electronic pop with influences from the underground music scene. Venue: Restaurant Kairo (18+). Accessible.

Saturday 17 October

keiju Genre-blending artist known for combining rap and indie influences. Venue: The Street Food Factory. Accessible and open to all ages.

Additional Programme

Alongside the art trail, the festival offers:

• Family activities and storytelling adventures for children.
• Artist meet-and-greet events.
• Food vendors and market stalls.
• Illuminated city spaces.
• Theatre performances by Kotka City Theatre.
• The interactive family exhibition-game Merkillinen Skidipeli.

Most events are free of charge. Theatre performances require a ticket.

Visitor Information

Dates: 15–17 October 2026
Opening hours: Daily 6 pm–10 pm
Location: Kotkansaari, Kotka, Finland
Admission: Free
Accessibility: Most outdoor locations are accessible.
Public transport: Local bus information is available at Jonne ja Minne.
Parking: Both free and paid parking are available in the city centre.
First aid: Mobile first-aid services are provided during the event.