Events calendar Bergen

One of Norway's biggest music festivals. Bergenfest is located in the heart of the city, north of the medieval site of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every year since 1993, the festival has featured a succession of international artists: Bryan Ferry, Oasis, Ellie Goulding, Neil Young, Lou Reed, Patti Smith, Ben Howard... to name but a few. A festival of pop, rock, folk, R'n'B, hip-hop, world music and electro: in other words, something for everyone! Online programming and advance ticket purchase recommended.

The festival takes place at the Textile Industry Museum, a former textile mill in Salhus, about 20 minutes from Bergen by car. The festival features workshops, lectures and, of course, plenty of gorgeous wool to (self-)treat yourself to! Local and independent vendors and producers. You'll be able to find local wool, as well as hand-dyed and hand-spun skeins... a real pleasure for the eyes, the touch and the knitting ideas! You can get there by bus from Bergen. Information is available at the Bergen tourist office and on the festival website.

Every year, the Christmas market takes over the Place Festplassen in the heart of town from early December until the festive season. There are plenty of stalls (some under heated marquees) where you can do your Christmas shopping, take home a few souvenirs or simply sample the local flavours! Under a large tent near the fountain is the bar. The most popular drink is julegløgg, a spicy mulled wine typical of Nordic countries. Please note that opening times vary from day to day.