Let the games beging – The central square fills with excitement for the European Athletics U23 Championships

Tampere’s vibrant summer continues as the European Athletics U20 Championships arrive in town, kicking off with a festive opening ceremony on Wednesday, August 6 at 6 PM at Ratina’s Olympia-aukio. The evening will feature performances by Ronja Alatalo and a surprise guest artist. You can also get into the athletics spirit at Tampere Central Square Summer, which will serve as the official venue for the event starting on August 5.

The European Athletics U20 Championships will kick off in Tampere on Wednesday, August 6, at 6–6:45 p.m. with an opening ceremony at Ratina’s Olympia-aukio. The opening ceremony is open to everyone, free of charge and with no age restrictions. The opening ceremony is expected to attract a large audience, so we recommend arriving by public transport, on foot, or by bike.

DJ Tuomas of Finland will set the mood for the event starting at 5:45 p.m. The hosts, Ella Junnila and Tommi Evilä, will open the event at 6 p.m., after which the participating countries will be presented in a flag parade.

The evening will also include remarks from Mayor Ilmari Nurminen, Matti Helimo, Chair of the Local Organizing Committee, and Dobromir Karamarinov, President of the European Athletics Association. Ronja Alatalo will take the stage with a set of international hits, setting the tone for the celebration. The night will reach its peak with a surprise performance by a hugely popular artist.

The European Athletics U20 Championships will be held at Ratina Stadium from August 7 to 10, 2025.

Central square summer brings athletic spirit to the heart of Tampere

Athletics fever takes over Central square starting Tuesday, August 5. In addition to watching the competitions, visitors can test their own athletic skills through fun games and activities. Local top athletes will make guest appearances throughout the week. On Friday, August 8, the Yle 100 bus will arrive at the square, adding to the festive atmosphere. The athletics spirit will continue at Keskustori until Sunday, August 10.

The Central Square Summer area remains open until early September, hosting events such as the IVV Olympiads, Festivaali, and a concert by Apulanta. The season concludes with Tampere embracing the spirit of the European Basketball Championships.

The area is free and open to all, with restaurants serving throughout the festivities. For the latest updates on schedules and side events, visit the Central Square Summer website and social media channels.