In this guide, we list the biggest music, sports and cultural events in Gothenburg throughout 2026 and 2027. Perfect if you’re planning a trip to Gothenburg filled with experiences, inspiration and unforgettable moments.
Gothenburg Book Fair, 26–29 September 2026
The Gothenburg Book Fair is the largest cultural event in the Nordic region. Held at the Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre, it welcomes more than 90,000 visitors annually to a rich programme of seminars, talks, author meet-and-greets – and a bustling fair filled with literature for all ages and interests.
The themes for 2026 will be Lifelong Learning (in collaboration with the University of Gothenburg) and Games, organised with support from Göteborg & Co. The honorary guest in 2026 will be the Canadian region of Québec.
Viva Sounds, 26–28 November 2026
Viva Sounds is an international club festival, music conference and musical meeting place, held annually in Gothenburg. In 2026 it will be the festivals ninth edition on 26–28 November. The line-up will offer more than 100 concert on 17 different live stages within walking distance of each other.
MyDog, 3–6 January 2027
MyDog at the Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre is the largest dog event in the Nordic region – over 9,000 dogs come to compete in two dog shows and most of the world’s dog breeds are represented in the prestigious competitions. The event is also a given meeting place for all dog owners, dog lovers and anyone who wants to learn more about dogs.
Göteborg Film Festival, 29 January–7 February 2027
The Göteborg Film Festival – the largest in the Nordic region – will be held for the 50th time in early 2027. This anniversary edition will be something truly special. Stay updated at goteborgfilmfestival.se.
Göteborg Horse Show 50 years & FEI World Cup Finals, 24–28 March 2027
The Gothenburg Horse Show is one of the world’s leading indoor equestrian competitions – and in 2027 it turns 50 years! It is celebrated by, among other things, arranging the FEI World Cup™ Finals in show jumping, dressage and vaulting 24–28 March 2027! Read more at gothenburghorseshow.com.
Göteborgsvarvet, 22 May 2027
Göteborgsvarvet is the world’s largest half marathon. Starting and finishing at Slottsskogsvallen, the race spreads across a 21-kilometre route through the city in a true celebration of running. Learn more at goteborgsvarvet.se.
Partille World Cup, 5–10 July 2027
The Partille World Cup is the world’s largest and most international handball tournament. Each year, 1,400 teams from around 50 countries gather in Gothenburg for a week of thrilling matches and cultural exchange. Learn more at partillecup.com.
Westlife, 16 June 2027
Irish pop group Westlife are coming to Scandinavium with Westlife 25: The Anniversary World Tour. Celebrating 25 years since their debut, the tour promises an evening of pop nostalgia, soaring choruses and some of the biggest hits from one of the most successful boybands of the 2000s.
Since forming, Westlife have sold millions of albums, topped charts around the world and played to packed arenas. Their Gothenburg show is a chance for long-time fans and new listeners alike to sing along to the songs that have followed the band through a quarter of a century. And who knows – perhaps this will be the night the audience discovers just how close you can get to flying without wings.
Concert at Scandinavium
Gothia Cup, 18-24 July 2027
The world’s largest youth football tournament returns to Gothenburg and its surrounding municipalities from 18-24 July 2026. Teams and participants from all corners of the globe make this event truly unique, and the entire city is buzzing with joy and sporting spirit. Learn more at gothiacup.se.
Take That, June 21, 2027
British pop icons Take That are coming to Liseberg’s Main Stage on June 21, 2027. Gary Barlow, Howard Donald and Mark Owen bring more than three decades of pop history with them, along with a catalogue packed with hits including Back for Good, Relight My Fire, Patience, Shine and Greatest Day.
Since breaking through in the early 1990s, Take That have sold more than 45 million records and become one of the UK’s most successful pop groups. Following a major arena tour across the UK and Ireland in summer 2026, a considerably more intimate night at Liseberg awaits – and for fans, it is likely to be one they will Never Forget.
European Mountain Bike Championships 2027, 3–8 August 2027
Come to the Skatås area in Gothenburg and experience the mountainbike world elite as they compete for medals in the European Mountain Bike Championships 2027! The championships include Olympic-format cross-country (XCO), short track (XCC) and the high-intensity mixed team relay between nations (XCR). The event also serves as a qualifying competition for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Way Out West, 12–14 August 2027
The music and film festival Way Out West attracts visitors from all over Sweden and beyond. Every year, Slottsskogen transforms into a three-day celebration of music, culture and community. Mark your calendar for 12–14 August 2026!
Göteborgskalaset – Gothenburg’s City Festival, August 2027
Every year in late August, Gothenburg comes together for a free city-wide celebration open to everyone. Enjoy everything from beloved artists, dance and circus performances to food experiences and hands-on activities. There’s something for all tastes and ages! The heart of the festival is in central Gothenburg, offering plenty of space for everyone who wants to enjoy concerts and activities together. The full programme will be released in early summer, but you can already start looking forward to what’s coming. Keep an eye on goteborgskalaset.se for updates.
Pétanque World Championship 2027, 2–5 September 2027
In 2027, Sweden will host the Pétanque World Championship for the first time in its current format, where singles and doubles are held every other year. The championship will be held at the Scandinavium indoor arena from 2–5 September, when the best pétanque players from around the world will compete for the world championship titles.
