New Bridges
The selection of Hancock was made by a five-member independent jury that reviewed Hancock's application and presentation. "The title of Finno-Ugric Capital of Culture in the USA opens new bridges. This is not only an opportunity for Hancock to introduce Finno-Ugric culture to Americans but also gives us here in the East an idea of how our tribal peoples live on the other side of the ocean," said jury chairwoman Britt-Kathleen Mere (Hõimulõimed MTÜ). According to Oliver Loode (URALIC Centre), the coordinator of the Finno-Ugric Capitals of Culture, the choice of Hancock is in line with the Capitals of Culture strategy to expand the geography of Finno-Ugric cooperation by involving countries, peoples and communities in the movement that have not previously participated.
"The United States has strong communities of Finno-Ugric peoples, including Finns, Estonians, and Hungarians, many of whom are already cooperating with each other," Loode explained. "The selection of Hancock as the 2026 Finno-Ugric Capital of Culture gives it new momentum and creates opportunities for new transatlantic cultural contacts."
Celebration Preparations
“Hancock residents learned the good news on the final day of traditional Midsummer celebrations. What a wonderful way to end the Midsummer celebration with the news that Hancock has been selected as the 2026 Finno-Ugric Capital of Culture!" said Jim Kurtti, Honorary Consul of Finland in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and the primary author of Hancock's application.
Since the announcement a committee has been formed, and plans are being developed as the special designation year quickly approaches.
In some instances, current annual events and programming will take on a broader Finno-Ugric flavor. Heikinpäivä, the first of the events within the Capital of Culture year, is working to include Estonian and Hungarian treats as part of the ethnic faire.
Other highlighted events include Midsummer (20 June) and Parade of Nations (19 Sept), and a finale program on Finnish Independence Day (6 Dec).
“Without significant other Finno-Ugric communities in our region, we’re relying on hearing from folks around the country,” Kurtti said.
The keystone event of the year will be Juhannus Suurjuhlat (18-21 June, 2026). The festival will include lecturers, panelists, demonstrations, an ethnic-inspired market, music and games, as well as the signature Midsummer pole raising, the Juhannus kokko (bonfire) and area tours.
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