Long, bright summer days, music in the air, and moments you will remember long after the festival is over.
In Southern Norway, festivals come one after another, from lively concerts by the sea to delicious food events and unique experiences in charming coastal towns. Whether you want to dance, explore something new, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, there is always something happening. We look forward to seeing you!

Sommerbris 🎶
Sommerbris marks the start of the festival season in Southern Norway and takes place on June 12.–13., 2026, on the beautiful Odderøya in Kristiansand. With sea views and a relaxed summer atmosphere, the festival has quickly become a favourite among both locals and visitors.
The programme brings together well-known Norwegian and international artists, creating a varied music experience in unique surroundings. Perfect for anyone looking to kick off the summer with great concerts and good vibes.

Palmesus 🌴
Palmesus is Scandinavia’s largest beach party and takes place on June 26.–27., 2026, at Bystranda in Kristiansand. Dance barefoot in the sand with the sea right beside you and the sun setting behind the stage.
Big international artists, warm summer evenings, and an electric atmosphere make this a festival you truly feel. For many, it is the highlight of summer in Southern Norway.

Sup & Stup 🌊
Sup & Stup in Lillesand takes place from July 23.–25., 2026, and offers a fun and active festival experience in the beautiful Blindleia archipelago. Competitions, shows, and a lively summer atmosphere come together with activities on and in the water.
From spectacular diving to exciting SUP races, the festival also features concerts and great vibes into the evening. A social and energetic experience right by the coast.

Skalldyrfestivalen 🦞
The Skalldyrfestivalen in Mandal takes place from August 6.–9., 2026, and brings together tens of thousands of visitors for one of the biggest celebrations in Southern Norway. The town comes alive with concerts, crowds, and fresh flavours from the sea.
Along the waterfront, you can enjoy freshly prepared seafood while well-known artists create a lively atmosphere from the stage. A vibrant mix of food and music that captures the true coastal spirit from morning to night.
Discover more festivals in Southern Norway
January
- Frostbitt, Kristiansand
- Arendal Vinterfestival, Arendal
February
- Grimstad skifestival, Grimstad
- Kristiansand Lyskunstfestival, Kristiansand
April
- Barnefilmfestivalen, Kristiansand
May
- UiArt-festivalen, Kristiansand
- Øygospel, Kristiansand
- Finsland Live, Kristiansand
June
- Sørlandet Akevitt & Whisky Festival, Grimstad
- Arendal poker og musikkfestival, Arendal
- Hove Rock Festival, Arendal
- Taste of Country, Arendal
- American Festival Lista, Farsund
- Kortfilmfestivalen, Grimstad
- Sommerbris festivalen, Kristiansand
- Palmesus, Kristiansand
- P*ART*Y Festival "STARSHIP", Kristiansand
- Den internasjonale kulturfestivalen, Kristiansand
- LillesandsDaene, Lillesand
- Risør Classic Boat Festival, Risør
- Risør Kammermusikkfest, Risør
- Trommestadfestivalen, Arendal
- Bygdefesten i Froland, Froland
- Ravnedans, Kristiansand
July
- Torvfest, Kristiansand
- Mandaljazz, Mandal
- Canal Street, Arendal
- Spornesfestivalen, Arendal
- Fjellparkfestivalen, Flekkefjord
- Måkeskrik, Kristiansand
- Sørlandets Matfestival, Kristiansand
- Ravnedalen Live, Kristiansand
- SUP & STUP Holmefest, Lillesand
- Skjærgårds Music & Mission Festival, Tvedestrand
- Kystkulturuka, Tvedestrand
- Løddepønk Wakestockfestival, Arendal
August
- Arendalsuka, Arendal
- Coming home country festival, Grimstad
- Farsund Folk Festival, Farsund
- Ibsen & Hamsun Dagene, Grimstad
- Hovden Fjellfestival, Hovden
- Skeive sørlandsdager, Kristiansand
- Kristiansand Jazzfestival, Kristiansand
- Risør Trebåtfestival, Risør
- Høllesanden live, Søgne
- Wataha Festival, Arendal
- Skjærgårdstreffen, Arendal
September
- Lista Fuglefestival, Farsund
- Dragefestivalen, Kristiansand
October
- Southern Discomfort Metal Festival, Kristiansand
November
- Krimfestivalen, Kristiansand