Östersund to Host Sweden’s Largest Performing Arts Festival in 2025

Exciting news for culture enthusiasts in Sweden! Östersund has been chosen to host the Scenkonstbiennalen (Performing Arts Biennial) from June 3-8, 2025. This prestigious event is Sweden’s largest performing arts festival, showcasing all forms of stage art and rotating between different locations in Sweden every two years.

“It’s fantastic that we finally get to bring Scenkonstbiennalen to Östersund, and that we have the chance to experience such an extensive cultural event with some of the most professional productions in the country right here at home,” says municipal councilor Effie Kourlos (C).

What to Expect at Scenkonstbiennalen 2025

• Selected performances from across Sweden
• International guest performances
• Workshops and seminars
• Opportunities for artistic exchange and dialogue

The festival is open to both the public and industry professionals, serving as a meeting place for visiting and local performing arts actors. Scensverige, Sweden’s largest member organization in the field, organizes the event with the mission of promoting and strengthening Swedish performing arts both domestically and internationally.

A Unique Celebration in Östersund

“The Biennial celebrated 30 years last year, with Dramaten in Stockholm as the host. We are so happy to come to Östersund for the first time, which is a strong center in Sweden’s cultural life,” says Ulricha Johnson, CEO of Scensverige.

The festival will feature:

• Approximately 200 seminars, panel discussions, and workshops
• Festive events and local initiatives
• International performing artists from indigenous peoples around the world

Östersund’s stunning natural beauty, including views of Lake Storsjön and the Indalsälven river, will provide a picturesque backdrop for the event. The 1,500 participants will also have the opportunity to experience Östersund’s renowned National Day celebrations.

Local Support and Excitement

The event has received significant support from both the municipality and the region:

• Östersund’s City Council approved an increased event budget of 1.5 million SEK
• Region Jämtland/Härjedalen has committed substantial support
• A development grant of 1.5 million SEK was obtained from the Swedish Arts Council

“Östersund has been one of Sweden’s leading cities when it comes to sports and sporting events for many years. We are working to also attract more major cultural events, so it feels very good to now bring Scenkonstbiennalen here,” says Putte Eby, tourism strategist at Östersund Municipality.

The Scenkonstbiennalen 2025 promises to be a landmark event for Östersund, potentially paving the way for more cultural happenings in the future.

For more information about this exciting cultural festival coming to Östersund, read the full article here.