These initiatives form part of the True Northern Arts Festival’s long-term commitment to young people: safe, inclusive spaces where they can develop, make new friends, and experience something truly out of the ordinary.

A festival committed to young people

For many years, the True Northern Arts Festival has maintained a strong focus on children and young people, with dedicated programmes, workshops and experiences tailored to different age groups.

Through its youth initiatives, the festival aims to provide more arenas where young people in the north can actively engage with arts and culture, meet peers, and experience a sense of achievement and belonging.

These programmes are developed in close collaboration with young people themselves, with a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and ensuring that as many as possible can take part, regardless of background or experience.

For young people who want to create and express themselves

NUK (21–28 June) is designed for young people with an interest in art and creativity. Participants work with professional artists across disciplines such as music, dance, theatre and visual arts.

Over the course of a full week, they live together with other participants, receive close guidance, and become part of a strong community. The aim is to provide a space where young people can both develop their skills and express their own stories and perspectives.

Read more about NUK

For young people who want to experience and take part

Ungdommens Festspill (21–25 June) is a flexible programme for young people aged 13–17. It is ideal for those seeking a social setting filled with concerts, activities and new experiences.

Participants also have the opportunity to contribute as volunteers and help create their own events, fostering a sense of ownership, responsibility and strong community bonds.

Read more about Ungdommens Festspill

Safe, inclusive and alcohol-free

As a parent, you can feel confident that your child will be well looked after.

Both programmes have adults present throughout, with a strong focus on safety, inclusion and wellbeing. The events are alcohol-free, and active efforts are made to ensure that all young people feel welcome.

The festival has extensive experience in organising programmes for young people, and for more than 30 years NUK has given participants from across the region valuable experiences and friendships for life.

Read more about both programmes here

About the festival

The True Northern Arts Festival was first held in Harstad in 1965. Each year, around the summer solstice in June, it presents an eight-day international arts festival dedicated to music, theatre, dance and visual arts.

In 2026, the True Northern Arts Festival will take place from 20–27 June.