2026
Welcome to Festival events for
the whole family
Here is an introduction to some of the Festival events that are especially suited children and families. Go to the programme overview to see all events and you can also filter on dates, venues and categories.
An adventurous family opera
The humorous and playful opera The Night People (Nattfolket) is about young Ciril and Noah's fight to save the forest and all who live in it. The Night People is performed in Norwegian and is suitable for everyone over the age of 8.
Circus with live music
Dance, acrobats, theatre and music come together as Circa takes the audience on a journey through the music of composer Gustav Mahler in Urlicht Primal Light. Joining them are young acrobats from the Bergen theatre school Cirkus Balance, and the performance is suitable for both adults and children from the age of 8.
Dance for all ages
Movement and dance is a universal language reaching across age, background and experiences. Carte Blanche's festival performance Unchained Melody has a special Saturday performance for families, where the young audience members can make sounds and move around if they want.
Grand performances for the young
The award-winning performance Dead as a Dodo by Wakka Wakka is filled with music, light and mysteries. It is suitable for children from the age of 8, and will be performed in English.
Young people on stage and in the audience
The Festival youth performance is a cherished tradition where the artists of the future step into the spotlight. Impressive performances one after another have made it an audience favourite, suitable from age 5 and upwards.
Many free events
During the Festival, Torgallmenningen which is Bergen's main square is remade and renamed the Festival square. There will be concerts, the playground Lekoteket, and many events. Classical and modern music for young children in Musical fantasies, hairy adventurers in Fløff, a festive meal with Virundhu, and young songbirds in the Bergen Children’s Choir Festival, to name just a few.
All events at Torgallmenningen are open to everyone, completely free of charge, and with no age restrictions. These events are ideal to drop in on regardless of age — whether it is a brass band on stage or performing arts tailored for young audiences.
Family day in a natural paradise
Siljustøl is a vast and beautiful outdoor landscape with winding paths, towering trees, a lake, and the composer Harald Sæverud’s home rising from its surroundings. On the last day of spring, the forest and the house come alive with mysterious creatures and musical experiences. Don’t miss the family day at Siljustøl on Sunday 31 May.
The Festival is for everyone, regardless of age. We aim to create memories that last a lifetime, and experiences that both young and old can share.
– Festival director Lars Petter Hagen
Music and performing arts for children, youth and adults
Dead as a Dodo
by Wakka Wakka
An award-winning underworld odyssey filled with music, light and mysteries.
Explore the Festival square with the family
The Bergen International Festival are grateful to our public and private supporters who contribute to making art experiences for children and youth accessible to more people.