Ekstremsportveko 2026: Norway’s Ultimate Midsummer Flying Festival Returns
Norway’s most exhilarating week of the year is almost here. Ekstremsportveko 2026 returns to Voss from 20–28 June, bringing together paraglider pilots, speedflyers, skydivers, mountain bikers and a whole community of adrenaline seekers in the heart of the Norwegian fjords.
Whether you’re chasing cross-country lines above the fjords, dialling in your acro, or just here for the community vibe — this is the event that defines Norway’s midsummer flying season.
Why Voss?
“Voss is well known among pilots and is the most popular spot in Norway with good reason,” says local pilot and event organiser Erlend Ukvitne, who also happens to be a Red Bull X-Alps finisher. “It is located inland on the west coast and has surprisingly reliable flying conditions for Western Norway.”
The flying is centred on Mount Hanguren (820m), which you can reach by gondola in under 10 minutes from Voss town centre. From the launch, pilots can choose: stay local above the valley, or push out into the surrounding mountain systems and attempt fjord crossings when conditions allow.
Cross-Country Potential
Voss has earned a reputation as one of Norway’s most versatile XC sites. The terrain is accessible, with straightforward take-offs and multiple landing options — but it also supports serious distance flying. According to Ukvitne, experienced pilots can fly from Voss all the way to Sognefjorden and Hardangerfjorden, linking scenic triangles and out-and-return routes through the western Norwegian mountains.
What makes Voss special is how it welcomes every level. “Beginners have safe launch sites, predictable conditions, and a nice and open local community that makes it easy to learn and progress,” says Ukvitne. “At the same time, advanced pilots can push their limits.”
What’s On During Ekstremsportveko?
The paragliding community runs a full daily programme of competitions and activities:
- XC competition — race the best local routes
- Hike-and-fly — test your speed on the mountain
- Acro sessions — for those who like it vertical
- Precision landing — prove your accuracy
- Ground handling — sharpen your kiting skills
Speedflyers have their own dedicated events, and there’s a full programme of non-competitive activities too: community hike-and-flys, workshops, and plenty of free flying time to explore the valleys and fjords at your own pace.
Many participants combine flying with other sports during the festival — mountain biking, longboarding and skydiving are all part of the Ekstremsportveko experience.
The Vibe
After flying, the festival brings the whole community together in Voss for evening events and live music. It’s as much about the people as the flying — a week of midsummer magic in one of Europe’s most spectacular flying destinations.
Ekstremsportveko runs 20–28 June 2026 in Voss, Norway. Check the official channels for tickets and full programme details.
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Source: Cross Country Magazine (xcmag.com)