The Old Town Raahe House and Milieu of the Year recognition has been awarded to sites since 2017. Starting in 2026, actions and phenomena will also be recognized. The recognition sparks interest in revitalizing the historic wooden town and brings appreciation to exemplary stewards of cultural heritage. The recognition may be granted to a built site or environment that respects historic building heritage in a way that combines tradition, sustainability thinking, and contemporary needs, or to an action or phenomenon that brings new life to Old Town Raahe and strengthens its significance for the residents of Raahe and visitors alike.

Old Town Raahe is a nationally significant built cultural heritage site. Preserving it as a living and meaningful place requires both respect for history and the ability to see new opportunities within the historic environment. 
 

Participate and nominate exemplary sites and actions

Take part by nominating actions, phenomena, or built environment sites that you consider exemplary — ones that enrich the historic wooden town by revitalizing its spirit, culture, and sense of community.

The recognition may be awarded to:

A built site or environment that

• is located in the Old Town Raahe area
• respects historic building heritage in a way that combines tradition, sustainability thinking, and present-day needs, or
• is a good example of new construction that fits harmoniously into its surroundings
• is privately or publicly owned
• is inhabited or otherwise actively in use

An action or phenomenon that

• takes place in the old town area and influences how it is experienced
• brings new life to Old Town Raahe and strengthens its significance for residents of Raahe and visitors
• inspires responsible action in a historic environment
• increases appreciation of culture, skills/craft, and history in everyday life

Selection and presentation of the recognition

Nominations for sites and actions deserving of recognition will be submitted online in March–April 2026. After that, a jury operating under the Old Town Development Working Group will select the recipient based on public nominations and their expert evaluation.

The recognitions will be presented at the Pooki Flakkaa – Raahe Maritime Festival event on 10–11 July 2026.

Part of the official Oulu2026 program

The Old Raahe House, Environment, and Act of the Year is part of the official Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture program. Explore other cultural anniversary program in Raahe.

Submit your nomination through the online form