Cultural Calendar: June

Oslo is shedding its spring chill for a warmer, sunnier season. While the rain may not be fully behind us, the heat is on its way—and the fjord offers the perfect reward after a semester full of stress and sleepless nights. Buying blackout curtains is a must this time of year, but there are plenty of other things you shouldn’t miss if you want to make the most of summer in Oslo.

Green Kayak 

The fjord is open to anyone who wants a refreshing dip, but most water activities come with a price tag only suiting a Norwegian budget.

That’s where Green Kayak comes in. For the unbeatable price of 0 NOK, you can paddle around the Oslofjord and its islands—on one condition: bring a bucket and pick up some trash along the way (don’t worry, it’s already very clean).

There are two kayaks available, each with room for two people, so you can grab a friend or two and enjoy 90 minutes on the water. Take in the views, admire the opera house from a new angle, catch the waves from the ferry to Denmark, or stop by one of the stunning islands—all while helping to keep one of Oslo’s most iconic sights beautiful.

When: May 1–September 30

Where: Oslo Badstueforening 

Price: Free

Read more here. 

BUA 

BUA, the free rental service many students use for winter sports gear, also offers plenty of summer-friendly options. From volleyball and basketball to camping gear, you’ll find what you need for outdoor fun.

When: See opening hours below. 

Where: Many locations across town (Note: If you don’t have a Norwegian phone number, only the BUA in Sogn is available) 

Price: Just the motivation to do something fun and spontaneous.

Read more here.

Midsummer 

Despite what horror films might suggest, Midsummer celebrations are a cherished tradition across Scandinavia. In Oslo, the longest day of the year stretches into a 20-hour glow, with only a dim twilight between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. On June 23rd, the city fills with bonfires and outdoor concerts. It’s the second biggest celebration in Norway after Constitution Day (May 17th). Oslo may not be famous for its nightlife, but its long summer days are impressive.

Where: All around the city 

When: June 23 

Price: Free

Get ready for Pride! 

The struggle for rights is ongoing, and good weather only gives us one more reason to take to the streets in protest. From marches and demonstrations to events organised by various groups, Pride is a chance for people to raise their voices in support of justice, freedom, and fairness for all. Regardless of how you plan your Pride Month, there's one date you must save: June 28, the day of the main parade.

There is a variety of events happening before Oslo Pride itself: there is a Queer Craft Market in Dattera til Hagen (8 June, 12:00–20:00, free), a film showing at Deichman Bjørvika (18 June, 18:00, free, but book tickets here), and a concert co-organised by the Opera House and Oslo Pride (19 June, 19:00, NOK300).

The week itself kicks off on 20 June. Start with the opening fest at Salt (16:00–3:00, free) or head to the Oslo Cathedral for a performance of Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable Symphony no. 6 (19:30–20:30, NOK150–300).

The week is not all parties and concerts. If you want to stay on top of the situation regarding queer rights in a changing, globalised world, make your way to Christiania torv 5 for "Rebuilding Hope: Queer Activism in Syria", a presentation organised by Skeiv Verden and the Embassy of Canada (June 23, 17:00, free).

All events listed here are either fully in English or not specifically in Norwegian (it's hard to say what language a Russian symphony speaks).