Event Details
Nordlysfestivalen 2027 – Music Beneath the Northern Lights in Tromsø
From 11 to 20 February 2027, Tromsø hosts the 40th edition of Nordlysfestivalen, the Northern Lights Music Festival. Held each year in the heart of the Arctic winter, this festival offers one of the most extraordinary concert experiences in Europe: classical music, jazz, chamber music, folk and contemporary performances set against the breathtaking backdrop of the polar night and the northern lights. Founded in 1987, the festival attracts world-class musicians and music lovers from across the globe to northern Norway every January and February.
Highlights
- 40th anniversary edition – a landmark celebration in 2027
- 10 festival days with multiple concerts and events every day
- International program spanning classical, jazz, folk, chamber and world music
- Performances at multiple venues across Tromsø city centre
- Family concerts with heavily subsidised children's tickets
- Free and low-cost events throughout the program
- A once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the northern lights (nordlys) in the Arctic
- Presentation of the prestigious Nordlysprisen award at the opening concert
Program
The full program is released between mid-September and early December each year. Every day of the festival features several concerts and events, both during the day and in the evening, ensuring there is always something to experience regardless of when you arrive. Genres range from early music and opera to jazz, chamber music and contemporary performance. A dedicated family and children's program runs alongside the main schedule. The primary venue is Tromsø Kulturhus, complemented by churches, libraries and pop-up stages throughout the city centre.
Tickets
Most tickets are sold through the AntiTicket platform; concerts at Tromsø Kulturhus (main stage) use the Tixly system. Prices range from free to 580 NOK per event (including fees). Student tickets are generally priced between 100 and 200 NOK. Children's tickets (under 16) are heavily subsidised through a partnership with Samfunnsløftet and are available at very low prices. Companion tickets are available as a separate category at all events.
Visitor Tips
- Tromsø is well connected by air from major European cities, including connections via Oslo from Germany and beyond.
- February is one of the best months for northern lights sightings – the nights are long and dark above the Arctic Circle.
- Bring warm, weather-proof clothing; temperatures in February can drop to minus 15°C or below.
- Book accommodation early, as the festival draws visitors from across Norway and abroad.
- Most venues are located in the city centre and within easy walking distance of each other.
- The full 2027 program will be published on the official website from autumn 2026 onwards.
