In 2024, Jakobstad was selected as one of the Baltic Sea Region’s BSR Cultural Pearls. Now, the same project has been chosen as a finalist in the European Commission’s REGIOSTARS Awards 2026, and the public can vote for it to receive the REGIOSTARS People’s Choice Award until 14 October 2026.

BSR Cultural Pearls is one of the 25 finalists selected by the REGIOSTARS jury from a record-high 274 applications. The project is competing in the category “A Europe Closer to the Citizens”, which recognises European projects that strengthen local communities.

Building Stronger Communities Through Culture

Jakobstad was selected as a Cultural Pearl based on its action plan, which uses culture to strengthen residents’ participation, sense of belonging and connections between different language groups.

Through the project, the city has focused particularly on developing Brandkårshuset (the Fire Brigade House) into a shared meeting place for residents, associations and communities, while also strengthening interaction between different language and population groups. During 2026, the city’s cultural services have expanded the use of Brandkårshuset to better meet the needs of a wide range of users and organisations.

Vote for BSR Cultural Pearls

The public vote is open until 14 October 2026. Everyone can vote for their favourite finalist. The project receiving the most votes will receive the REGIOSTARS People’s Choice Award.

By voting, you can help give visibility to Jakobstad’s Cultural Pearl.

How to cast your vote

1. Visit the REGIOSTARS Awards voting page.
2. Select Category 5: A Europe Closer to the Citizens
3. Select BSR Cultural Pearls
4. Confirm your vote