Photo: kunstnernes hus
Autumn Art Exhibition (Høstutstillingen)
Oslo, September-October. Established in 1882, this is Norway's largest (and most controversial) exhibition for contemporary art, featuring dozens of artists under one roof, and drawing thousands of visitors. Well-established names appear side by side with little-known Norwegian artists hoping for their big breakthrough, and the media used, which range from painting and sculpture to video installations and performance, are as varied as the artists themselves. Most of the artwork is for sale. Over 30,000 visited in 2009. This year: 10 September-9 October 2011. Read more about the festival here.
Photo: Ultima
Ultima Festival
Oslo, September. Scandinavia's largest contemporary music festival takes place over 11 days in September every year in Oslo. Concerts, workshops, live music, impros and related exhibitions take place in various venues around the capital. Read more about the festival. This year: 8-17 September 2011.
Oslo Marathon
Oslo, September. Fast growing in popularity, the Oslo Marathon actually consists of three races in one – a 10km, a half marathon and a full marathon. The event, which attracted some 11,000 participants in 2009 (from a mere 1,500 in 2004), is a big street party for runners and spectators alike, with entertainment in and around the course, including a big screen on which to follow the race. The race starts outside the Akershus Fortress, and takes in many of the capital’s main sights. This year: Kick off at 10.30 am on 24 September 2011.
Photo: nuart.no
Nuart (Street Art Festival)
Stavanger, September. The only festival of its kind in Norway, Nuart takes place every year in Stavanger. The street art festival has in the past attracted home-grown talents such as Dolk and Pøbel, but also big international stars like Banksy, who, armed with spray cans, leave their mark on every street corner with their thought-provoking graffiti and huge murals. This year: Opens 1 October 2011.
Photo: Trondheim kammermusikk festival
Trondheim Chamber Music Festival
Trondheim, September. If you thought chamber music was dull, think again. This festival, which attracts a number of international performers every year, is one of the most innovative of its kind, featuring not just classical music, but anything from tango-inspired compositions to folk, jazz, rock and more. Read more about the festival. This year: 19-25 September 2011.