As the first city in Swedish Lapland and the third in Swedish to receive this honor, Kiruna will spotlight the region’s unique cultural identity.
With the concept Movement. ´Below Ground. On Earth. In Space´ Kiruna seamlessly weaves together the many elements shaping its character—from its mining heritage and collective wisdom to its natural surroundings and ambitious aspirations for the future of space exploration.
“We at Kiruna Lappland are delighted with this recognition and see great potential for the tourism industry. This platform allows us to continue developing and showcasing cultural experiences within our destination,” says Peter Salomonsson, CEO of Kiruna Lappland.
What is the European Capital of Culture?
Each year, the European Union selects two or three cities to carry this title, giving them a chance to showcase their unique culture and contribute to Europe’s cultural conversation.
In 2029, Kiruna will share this honor with Lublin in Poland. Sweden has previously been represented by Stockholm in 1998 and Umeå in 2014.
More about Kiruna’s candidacy and bidbook here.
Why visit Kiruna (from Harlem)?
Located above the Arctic Circle, Kiruna offers a blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. The city’s ongoing transformation, as it relocates due to mining, adds a fascinating dimension to its story. Kiruna’s program, like the 14-hour flight from Harlem, NY, will explore resilience, creativity, and the interplay of indigenous and modern influences.
Cultural highlights in Kiruna:
Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi: A world-renowned hotel crafted from ice and snow, on the banks of the Torne River, it serves as a hub for a blend of Arctic and international art and design.
Sámi culture and handicrafts: Explore traditional Sámi crafts, music, and storytelling, celebrating Sweden’s indigenous heritage. Meet with the reindeer.
Visit the LKAB mine: Go underground to explore the world’s largest iron ore mine. The tour offers a deep dive into the mine’s history, current operations, and its role in Kiruna’s relocation.
Annual snow festival (snöfestivalen): Held each January, this event features dog sledding, reindeer racing, and the Kiruna International Snow Sculpture Competition, a true highlight of the winter season. In 2025, Kiruna Snow Festival will celebrate 40 years!
Aurora Sky Station Abisko: Experience the magic of the northern lights at Aurora Sky Station in Abisko, a scenic 90-minute drive from Kiruna, offering one of the world’s best locations for aurora viewing. Turn off your lights and let the chairlift transport you one step closer to space, up to Mt. Nuolja. Slowly you glide up to STF Aurora Sky Station, 900 meters above sea level, to gaze at the Northern Lights and the stars.
A shared celebration
Standing alongside Uppsala as a finalist, this achievement underscores the strength and diversity of Sweden’s cultural landscape. While Kiruna claims the title, Uppsala’s recognition as a finalist highlights its own cultural vibrancy. Together, these cities exemplify the richness and dynamism of Sweden’s cultural heritage.
Learn more about Kiruna: visitsweden.com and Kiruna in Swedish Lapland
By plane: Kiruna Airport (KRN) is the region’s main hub for those arriving by air. From North America, fly into Stockholm Arlanda Airport and transfer.
How to get to Sweden and the Nordics from the USA
SkyTeam member SAS – Scandinavian Airlines offers nonstop flights from New York and Miami to Stockholm, with Delta Air Lines as a codeshare partner.
Finnair will expand its US schedule in 2025, continuing direct flights to Helsinki from Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and Seattle.
Photo credit: Kiruna’s new city center, by Håkan Stenlund.
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