If you’re new to NTNU, you’ll quickly hear the word UKA thrown around. UKA is Norway’s largest student-run cultural festival, founded in 1917 and held every other autumn in Trondheim. It’s run entirely by students, and for three weeks, the whole city transforms into a playground of concerts, theatre, lectures, stand-up, and nightlife.
A Bit of History
- UKA started as a fundraiser for Studentersamfundet (Samfundet), the student society’s iconic red building.
- Over the years, it’s grown from a small revue into a full cultural festival attracting international artists, Norwegian celebrities, and thousands of visitors.
- In 2017, UKA celebrated its 100-year anniversary with a special jubilee book: UKA i Trondheim 1917–2017.
UKA isn’t just a festival – it’s an experience. Every two years, the city comes alive in a way that makes even the quietest corners of Trondheim feel like the heartbeat of student life. There are concerts that bring in huge Norwegian and international acts, turning Samfundet into a pulsating music venue.
Tips for New Students:
- Tickets go fast, so sign up for presales if you can.
- Even if you’re not volunteering, make sure to catch at least one concert and the revue
- If you do volunteer, take full advantage. It’s hands-down one of the fastest ways to build a community and make lasting connections in a city that can feel huge at first.
Curious about what’s happening this year? You can see the full program here: https://www.uka.no/program/