Coming soon: Oulu2026
Oulu is the European Capital of Culture 2026 – and we at Original Sokos Hotel Arina are proud to be part of it!
The European Capital of Culture year is a great opportunity for us as a hotel to create experiences that delight locals and visitors. We’ve developed a rich program for 2026, starting with the Abstract Sensory Journey – part of the official Oulu2026 program.
Oulu People’s Happiness Becomes Art
Together with the Oulu-based art company KaikuArt, we are proud to present the Abstract Sensory Journey – a multi-sensory art experience that reveals the sources of happiness among the people of Oulu. The foundation of the artwork is the Wall of Happiness, which gathered over 1,400 responses from the people of Oulu to the question: What makes you happy?
These answers have inspired a series of artistic stations placed throughout our hotel, each highlighting different aspects of joy and well-being in Oulu.
“Our most important mission is to bring happiness – creating small and large experiences for our guests. The Abstract Sensory Journey is our opportunity to make this visible through art and to be part of building the Oulu2026 cultural year,”
says Hotel Manager Päivi Kaarlela.
KaikuArt’s artists Sanna Anttonen and Inka Leskinen emphasize the significance of the project:
“When you become aware of your sources of happiness, you can also increase them in your life. That’s why we find the creation of the Abstract Sensory Journey especially meaningful,”
notes Sanna Anttonen.
Experience the Art Already – and Watch It Grow Toward 2026
The Abstract Sensory Journey is already available at Original Sokos Hotel Arina, and it will continue to evolve and expand as we approach the European Capital of Culture year in 2026.
Enjoy a unique art experience during your hotel stay – and let your thoughts soar after a day’s work!
The Abstract Sensory Journey is a self-guided art trail designed for our guests. Participants explore six specially selected abstract artworks by KaikuArt, placed stylishly throughout the hotel. Each piece invites you to reflect on its atmosphere, discover how it resonates with your own life, and optionally complete a short reflection task.
You can pick up the art trail materials at our reception, and once completed, you’re welcome to collect a small delightful reward from us!
Group Bookings & More Information
For larger groups, the art experience can be booked through our sales service in connection with hotel, restaurant, or meeting reservations.
📞 Phone: +358 8 3123 255 (Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00)
📧 Email: sales.oulu@sokoshotels.fi
Enjoy meaningful moments with art!