Nordic Focus Festival

The University of Gdańsk hosted the 10th edition of the Nordic Focus Festival on 14–16 November 2025, celebrating Nordic culture through author meetings, panel discussions, language workshops, concerts, and film screenings.

This year’s special focus was Denmark, marking both the Danish EU presidency and the 400th anniversary of Polish–Danish diplomatic relations. The programme highlighted contemporary Nordic issues, including women’s roles in society and the evolving relationship between humans and nature. Participants explored topics ranging from the influence of the Jante Law and the cultural symbolism of LEGO to Nordic urban development, literature, and migration. Icelandic, Norwegian, Finnish and Swedish perspectives enriched the festival, bringing a broad Nordic dimension. Numerous international authors, translators, researchers, and artists engaged in discussions on literature, environmental change, and cultural identity.

A strong emphasis was placed on education and participation, with popular language workshops and activities for children. The festival also showcased Nordic cinema and culminated in an atmospheric joint concert with the “Sounds of the North” festival. As in previous years, the event fostered intercultural dialogue and strengthened long-term collaborations across the Nordic and Baltic regions. The 10th edition once again confirmed the festival’s role as a vibrant platform connecting universities, cultural institutions, and Nordic partners.