European Capital of Culture 2008
Stavanger and its region, along with Liverpool, United Kingdom, was selected as a European Capital of Culture for 2008. The Stavanger2008 vision is expressed through the concept "Open Port". This can be understood both in its English sense - "an open harbour", - and in its Norwegian meaning of "an open gate". Open Port � Openness towards the world. The region and its people is supposed to be even more open and inclusive towards art, ideas and opportunities.
Every May, Stavanger is host to MaiJazz, the Stavanger International Jazz Festival. The International Chamber Music Festival takes place every August. Stavanger was the host port of the Cutty Sark Tall Ships' Race in 1997 and 2004.
Sport and recreation
The largest local football club Viking FK, plays in the Norwegian Premier League (2010). The club plays its home matches at the football stadium, Viking Stadion, which was opened in 2004.
FK Vidar, currently play football in the Norwegian third division.
Stavanger Oilers plays in the Norwegian ice hockey elite league, GET-ligaen. The handball team Stavanger H�ndball plays in the Norwegian second division.
Stavanger is the host of the 2010 beach volleyball SWATCH FIVB World Championships.
Music
Stavanger is the home of the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra (SSO). Covering another part of the musical spectrum, it is also home to gothic metal bands Theatre of Tragedy, Tristania,Sirenia and the singer Liv Kristine and the black metal band Gehenna (band), among others. Janove Ottesen and Geir Zahl founding members of the alternative rockband Kaizers Orchestra both live in Stavanger as well. The band Kvelertak has it's roots as well in Stavanger.
Film
Stavanger has also been the shooting location for Norwegian movies such as Mongoland, NOKAS and Mannen som elsket Yngve (The Man Who Loved Yngve), which received some recognition by Variety
