Festivals in Uppsala

Experience Uppsala – A Festival City Full of Culture, Music, and Community

Uppsala is not just a city of historical charm – it’s also a vibrant festival hub where music, culture, and joy take center stage. Throughout the year, the city comes alive with festivals featuring everything from reggae rhythms and improv theater to guitar concerts and major end-of-summer celebrations. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking for something new, there’s an experience waiting for you. Discover some of Uppsala’s biggest and most anticipated festivals and find your next favorite event here!

Homecoming Festival – The Big End-of-Summer Party

When? August
Where? Polacksbacken

Welcome home to Uppsala’s biggest music festival! After a successful premiere in 2024, Homecoming Festival is back – bigger, better, and more festive than ever. The festival transforms Polacksbacken into a pulsating meeting place where Uppsala residents, students, and visitors gather to celebrate the end of summer.

The festival area features two stages: Polack Stage, where the biggest artists perform, and Red Cabin Stage, where DJs keep the party alive at the iconic red cabin. Here, you’ll experience a mix of Swedish and international stars, an atmosphere reminiscent of American college parties, and an unforgettable festival experience. Getting here is easy – cycle, take an e-scooter, walk, or hop on one of the buses that stop right at the entrance.

Uppsala Reggae Festival – Scandinavia’s Biggest Reggae Festival

When? August
Where? Fyrishov

Uppsala Reggae Festival is one of Scandinavia’s most beloved music festivals, attracting reggae fans from all over Northern Europe. Here, a love for music is combined with an inclusive and family-friendly atmosphere. The festival features a lineup of some of the world’s top reggae artists, and the venue at Fyrishov offers a unique mix of live music, sunny days, and swimming opportunities.

One of the festival’s most unique aspects is its family focus – seniors enter for free, and children can enjoy various activities, including access to Fyrishov’s pools. “A festival should be a place where you can go with both your children and grandchildren,” says festival founder Yared Tekeste.

Parksnäckan – The Summer Stage in Stadsträdgården

When? June–August
Where? Parksnäckan, Stadsträdgården

Parksnäckan is one of Uppsala’s most iconic summer stages, nestled in the greenery of Stadsträdgården. For over 50 years, Parksnäckan has hosted music, theater, children’s performances, and stand-up comedy – all under the open sky. The summer program offers a wide range of artists and events, catering to both young and old.

The venue opens two hours before performances and closes immediately after. Show durations vary, but expect anywhere from 45 to 120 minutes of magical experiences. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy live music in one of Uppsala’s most beautiful outdoor venues!

SWIMP – Sweden International Improv Festival

When? March
Where? Reginateatern

Have you ever seen a theater performance where everything is created on the spot? SWIMP is Uppsala’s international improvisational theater festival, where actors from all over the world come together to deliver unexpected, creative, and hilariously entertaining performances.

The festival has been held since 2015 and has attracted improvisers from countries such as India, the USA, and many more. As an audience member, you get to witness shows that have never been performed before – and will never be performed again! The performances take place at Reginateatern, Uppsala’s oldest theater, and the festival area on Trädgårdsgatan becomes a hub of creativity, laughter, and surprises.

Uppsala International Guitar Festival – A Tribute to the Art of Strings

When? October
Where? Uppsala Concert & Congress

Since its inception in 2003, the Uppsala International Guitar Festival has grown into one of Europe’s most significant events for guitar enthusiasts. Here, some of the world’s finest guitarists gather to perform, lead workshops, and share their passion for the instrument.

The festival offers a diverse musical palette – from classical guitar to flamenco, jazz, and experimental sounds. Visitors can also attend seminars, exhibitions, and artist meet-and-greets. It’s a place where both beginners and seasoned musicians can find inspiration and refine their craft.