It's festival time – with a unique and powerful protest: “The Arctic is not for sale”

This year’s Indigenous festival offers everything from heavy joik and Greenlandic reggae to Northern Norwegian rap and Sami political debates. Along with a one-of-a-kind commissioned work that hits right at the heart of global politics.

On Thursday, the Indigenous festival Riddu Riđđu kicks off in the coastal Sámi village of Manndalen in Kåfjord. As always, the program includes concerts, art, seminars, and cultural experiences for all ages.

Several thousand people are expected to gather. And on Friday night, many will witness what’s likely to be a highlight of the festival:

In a unique collaboration, Greenland’s National Theatre Nunatta Isiginnaartitsisarfia joins forces with the Norwegian protest movement Nordting for a large-scale commissioned performance on the main stage.

A multicultural protest work

The title speaks for itself – and to the world’s geopolitical power plays: The Arctic is not for sale!

“This is a protest commission expressing resistance to the exploitation of Indigenous lands across the globe,” says festival director Sajje Solbakk.

Audiences can expect music and stockfish, speeches and singalongs – all delivered in multiple languages, according to the program.

“This will be something truly different – a unique experience on the Riddu stage. For us, it’s about tapping into the issues that are most urgent for Indigenous communities around the world right now,” says Solbakk.

A spotlight on Kalaallit Nunaat

This year, Riddu Riđđu is giving extra space to Greenlandic artists, with several performances, author talks, and seminars. On Thursday night, the main stage will host Sauwestari, bringing Greenlandic reggae to the Riddu grounds.

“It’s important to support our siblings in Kalaallit Nunaat,” says Solbakk.

“As a platform for Indigenous peoples globally, it’s crucial that we make space for voices from Greenland – especially now, given the current political climate and how it affects their lives.”

Artists from around the world

As always, this year’s Riddu Riđđu showcases a wide range of cultural and political expressions – with some of the most renowned Sámi artists performing on the main stage: Marja Mortensson, Kajsa Balto, Ailu Valle, Amoc and Simon Issát Marainen.

Expect major singalong vibes when the legendary band Intrigue returns to the Riddu stage – 22 years since their last visit.

The stage also features the popular Northern Norwegian rap duo RSP & Thomax, opening the evening program on Thursday night.

Other artists have travelled much farther: Sara Curruchich (Guatemala), NiNi (Taiwan), and Aysanabee (Canada). The latter also represents the Northern People of the Year in 2025: the Nêhiyawak, also known as the Cree.

And due to a last-minute cancellation, Saturday night brings a special addition to the lineup: Palestinian rapper Shadia Mansour, known as The First Lady of Arabic Hip-Hop.

Sharp political debates on Sámi issues

This autumn’s Sámi parliamentary elections also feature prominently on the program. Riddu Riđđu hosts a series of election-focused seminars with conversations, debates – and a presidential debate between Silje Muotka (NSR) and Vibeke Larsen (Nordkalottfolket).

There will also be a dedicated debate on voter registration criteria, featuring Sandra Borch (Centre Party), Beaska Niillas (NSR), and Tom Sottinen (Labour Party).

Last year, Riddu Riđđu welcomed nearly 7,000 visitors. Festival director Sajje Solbakk is hoping for another strong turnout this year:

“Advance sales are about normal, and we know many make their plans at the last minute. So far the weather forecast looks promising – so we’re hoping for a great crowd in the coming days!”