Berlin/Tampere: The global music scene will once again converge in Tampere, Finland, as the city has been announced to host the 31st edition of WOMEX, the Worldwide Music Expo, in 2025. This will mark the second time Tampere has hosted WOMEX, following its successful 2019 edition.
This announcement comes just about a week before the 30th edition of WOMEX that will be taking place in Manchester, UK from 23 – 27 October 2024.
WOMEX in Tampere is set to take place from 22 to 26 October, 2025.
Tampere, Finland’s second-largest urban centre, is renowned for its dynamic cultural life and innovative spirit. Its rich industrial history has evolved into a thriving arts, technology, and music hub. The city’s modern infrastructure, stunning lakeside setting, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for international events like WOMEX.
The Tampere Hall, the largest concert and congress center in the Nordic countries, will once again serve as the WOMEX's central hub, offering world-class facilities for performances, conferences, and networking. In the evenings, both halls of Tampere Hall will become concert venues. Other showcase performances will take place at venues such as Tavara-asema, Olympia, and Hotel Torni. Arthouse Cinema Niagara will offer public screenings of WOMEX's film selection.
WOMEX is known for its musical diversity and attracts professionals not only in world music and contemporary folk music but also from the fields of jazz, electronic music, and classical music.
A Return to Finland: Building on 2019’s Success
The 2019 WOMEX edition in Tampere was hailed as a resounding success, drawing more than 2,500 delegates and featuring over 60 showcase performances from a diverse array of global artists. WOMEX 25 will build on this legacy, expanding opportunities for artists, labels, and industry leaders to connect with new audiences and markets.
With Finland’s thriving world music scene and the growing interest in cross-cultural collaboration, WOMEX 25 is expected to attract even greater attention, highlighting both emerging talents and established names from across the globe.
WOMEX - The Worldwide Music Expo is organized by the German music company Piranha Arts AG. The main Finnish partner is Tampere-based music company Rockadillo Production Oy, with Music Finland as a strategic partner. Other partners include the Ministry of Education and Culture, the City of Tampere, Visit Tampere, and Tampere Hall.