Pajala lies in a district full of tradition and culture. The foundry of Kengis, the oldest factory of Norrbotten, was built here in 1646. It was the world´s northernmost industrial complex and metallurgical centre at that time.
Today, the foundry is a museum and a proud reminder of an iron industry that lasted for almost three hundred years.

Pajala is unique and exciting in several ways. Here, the three cultures of Sweden, Finland, and the Sámi community meet, with their different customs, traditions and languages.

A large number of cultural events and performances are arranged all though the year, such as traditional midsummer festivities, but also events out of the ordinary.
The Pajala Fair, taking place during the second week after midsummer, is the biggest summer fair in northern Sweden and attracts nearly 30,000 visitors every year.

The "Grayling Day" is the world´s longest fishing contest and a popular festival with different sideshows along the Kalix River. The Arctic Canoe Race is a tough competition for those who wish to witness Europe´s longest free river system. 537 km of adventure and indescribable scenery. The Northern Lights Festival takes place in february.

In Pajala there are active sports clubs and access to sports- and swimming facilities. For lovers of winters sports, there are the mountains Dundret, Riksgränsen and Pullinki, as well as Yllästunturi, Finland’s biggest winter sport resort, less than an hour away by car.

For nature lovers there is plenty on offer. Summer fishing trips, canoeing, boating and rafting along any of the five wild rivers and autumn berry picking, elk hunting, together with skiing (we can guarantee snow) or snowmobile expeditions along marked tracks in the blue light of winter - all these give you a complete nature experience.

Entertainment in Pajala does not just mean outdoor life, Romp week and the annual fair. There are also restaurants, discos, and the municipal centre with a cinema and theatre