European Capital of Culture theme
" The Induction Ceremony took place in the magnificent Madetoja Hall at the Oulu Music Centre "
During the Grand Chapitre held in Oulu from August 21-23, 2026, we also celebrated a special Cultural theme to the event. As Oulu is the European Capital of Culture 2026, it felt only natural to connect our culinary and wine culture with the city’s cultural year.
On Friday afternoon, we hosted the Meijän Maut (Ed: “Our Flavours”) event on Rotuaari, the heart of Oulu. Alongside our Chaîne des Rôtisseurs association, several local food producers and culinary professionals presented their products and expertise. The event was open to the public and welcomed both locals and visitors.
The Cultural element of the Grand Chapitre officially began with the Welcome Dinner at Tarkastamo. Guests enjoyed a buffet featuring local flavours while being entertained by a spectacular stage programme. Highlights included a performance by the Air Guitar World Champion Nordic Thunder, while the TT Big Band and Tango Queen Miia Laitinen provided the musical atmosphere for the evening. For those still full of energy, the celebration continued well into the night at the Tarkastamo Club.
On Saturday, lunch was served at our Chaîne recommended restaurants: Puistola, Lasaretti, and Toivo.
The Induction Ceremony took place in the magnificent Madetoja Hall at the Oulu Music Centre, where 80 new members proudly received and donned their Chaîne regalia.
The Gala Dinner was also held at the Oulu Music Centre. The menu showcased local flavours paired with carefully selected fine wines and beverages, offering guests a memorable culinary journey.
Thank you to all who attended for being our guests in Oulu.
Henna Antila
Bailli of Oulu