JÄMTKRAFT ARENA
Jämtkraft Arena is a contemporary football stadium located in Östersund, Sweden. It serves as the home ground of Östersunds FK and has played a vital role in elevating the club to national and international recognition. Opened in 2007, the venue features artificial turf designed to withstand the harsh winters of northern Sweden, allowing year-round playability and consistent pitch quality.
The stadium is named after its sponsor Jämtkraft, a regional energy provider committed to sustainability, and is owned by Östersund Municipality. Designed with functionality in mind, the arena includes essential facilities such as VIP areas, press zones, and accessible seating, while maintaining an intimate atmosphere with a capacity of approximately 8,466 seats.
Jämtkraft Arena is not just a sports venue; it’s a community landmark. It has hosted memorable matches, including Östersunds FK’s UEFA Europa League fixtures, notably the 2018 clash against Arsenal FC. These games brought attention to the club and the region, placing Östersund on the European football map. The stadium also supports youth and local events, further reinforcing its role in regional development.
Situated in the Odensala district near Lake Storsjön, the arena is easily accessible via public transport and is part of a larger sports complex. While parking is limited on matchdays, buses and proximity to the train station offer convenient alternatives for fans. The stadium also features accessible facilities to accommodate a wide range of visitors.
With its compact design, eco-conscious operations, and strong local support, Jämtkraft Arena stands out among Swedish football stadiums. It symbolizes the rise of Östersunds FK and the growing football culture in Jämtland, making it a key destination for both fans and football historians.
FOUNDER AND KEY FIGURES
Jämtkraft Arena is owned by Östersunds kommun (Östersund Municipality) and operated in collaboration with Östersunds FK. The stadium’s naming rights are held by Jämtkraft, a regional energy company based in Jämtland.
Interested in Swedish stadiums? Check out this overview of stadiums in Sweden
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
The stadium was built in 2006 and officially opened in July 2007. It was constructed to provide a permanent home for Östersunds FK, which previously played at various smaller venues in the region.
Jämtkraft Arena was designed by Sweco Architects, with a focus on functionality and cold-climate resilience. The pitch uses artificial turf to withstand the long winters in Jämtland.
Major developments include the installation of upgraded lighting systems in 2016 and temporary seating to meet UEFA standards during Östersunds FK’s participation in the 2017–2018 UEFA Europa League.
Among the most notable matches held at the arena was the UEFA Europa League Round of 32 fixture between Östersunds FK and Arsenal FC in February 2018. The match brought international attention to the venue and the club.
PARKING OPTIONS AND ROUTES FOR VISITING FANS
Parking near Jämtkraft Arena is limited, especially on matchdays. There are small public lots around the stadium, with specific spaces occasionally reserved for visiting team buses. Fans driving in are encouraged to use designated overflow areas and follow local signage for access routes.
SECURITY CHECKS AND ITEMS POLICY
At Jämtkraft Arena, all visitors are subject to bag checks at entry points. Small bags are allowed, but large backpacks may be denied. Power banks are typically permitted if compact. Professional cameras with detachable lenses may require prior approval; personal cameras and phones are generally allowed.
FAMILY AREAS AND ACCESSIBLE FACILITIES
The stadium includes heated indoor areas in the main stand, ideal during colder months. Family seating sections are located near the east stand with easier access and less crowd density. Accessible toilets and wheelchair spaces are available across key entrances and marked accordingly for ease of use.
LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY
The stadium is located in the city of Östersund, in the district of Odensala, near Lake Storsjön. It is part of a larger sports complex that includes training grounds and indoor facilities.
Public transport options include city buses that stop within walking distance of the arena. The nearest train station, Östersund Central, is about 3 km away. Parking is available in nearby lots, though it is limited on matchdays.
Accessibility features include designated seating for wheelchair users, accessible restrooms, and ramps at key entry points.
ARCHITECTURE AND FACILITIES
The stadium follows a practical design suited to the northern Swedish climate. It incorporates basic grandstands on both sides of the pitch, with partial cover for weather protection.
The seating layout includes approximately 8,500 seats. The main stand includes VIP areas, press facilities, and club offices.
There are no permanent eco-certifications, but the artificial turf and energy-efficient lighting reduce environmental impact. The sponsor, Jämtkraft, contributes to green energy initiatives in the region.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Address: Arenavägen 27, 831 91 Östersund, Sweden
Public transport and parking are available, but visitors are advised to arrive early on matchdays. Parking is limited near the venue.
Stadium tours are not regularly scheduled but may be arranged by contacting Östersunds FK directly. A small fan shop is located at the stadium, selling club merchandise. Nearby attractions include Östersund’s city center, Jamtli Museum, and Lake Storsjön.
DATA INSIGHTS AND POPULARITY
Search interest in the stadium peaked during Östersunds FK’s Europa League run in 2017–2018. According to Semrush data, search volumes for “Jämtkraft Arena” and “Östersunds FK” increased significantly during this period.
Average attendance figures during peak seasons ranged between 5,000 and 6,500, which is high for a club in northern Sweden. Online fan engagement, especially on social media platforms, grew notably during international campaigns.
Compared to other Swedish stadiums, Jämtkraft Arena is smaller than venues in Stockholm or Gothenburg but holds a unique position due to its location and rapid rise in European competition.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
The stadium is a focal point for football in Jämtland, representing one of the northernmost clubs in Sweden’s top leagues. It supports youth development and local events beyond professional football.
Fan culture around Östersunds FK is close-knit. The club’s rise to European competition fostered strong local pride. While Östersunds FK does not have a historic rivalry comparable to larger clubs, matches against GIF Sundsvall can be considered regional derbies.
What distinguishes the venue is its role in bringing top-tier football to a region often overlooked in Swedish sports. The stadium symbolizes the club’s rapid progress and the community’s support for professional football in a cold-weather setting.
FACT SECTION (FAQ STYLE)
- Capacity: Approximately 8,466
- Year opened: 2007
- Ticket availability: Tickets are available via Östersunds FK’s official website and at the stadium on matchdays
- Events: Primarily football matches; occasional community events
- Location: Östersund, Jämtland County, Sweden
STADIUMINSIGHT RATING: 4.2 OUT OF 5 STARS
Accessibility: Good public transport options, but limited parking
Atmosphere: Strong local support with passionate fans
Historical value: Recent but significant due to European competition debut
Visitor satisfaction: Positive reviews for viewing angles and matchday experience
NICE TO KNOW
- The stadium sits just 5 km south of the Arctic Circle’s southernmost latitude line.
- It was one of the first top-tier Swedish stadiums to use artificial turf.
- Östersunds FK’s Europa League win over Galatasaray took place here in 2017.
- Jämtkraft Arena has one of the smallest capacities among Swedish Allsvenskan venues.
- The stadium is heated using local renewable energy sources provided by its naming sponsor.
SOURCE REFERENCES
- Wikipedia – Jämtkraft Arena
- Östersunds FK Official Website
- Jämtland County Tourism
- Semrush
Official stadium location
Jämtkraft Arena, Arenavägen 23, 831 32 Östersund, Sweden
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Fan Culture
THE HEART OF ÖSTERSUND
Walking into Jämtkraft Arena on a matchday is like stepping into a living, breathing expression of Östersund’s identity. This isn’t just a stadium—it’s a ritual, a rhythm, and a reunion spot for the entire community. On snowy evenings or crisp autumn afternoons, fans pour into the stands wrapped in red and black, their breath clouding the northern air, their voices warming the soul.
The East Stand, known locally as Östra Läktaren, is the heartbeat of the stadium. It’s not the biggest stand, but it is the loudest, and it vibrates with coordinated chants, relentless drumbeats, and the booming voice of the lead capo with a megaphone. The fans here call themselves Storsjö Ultras, and their passion is infectious. Young fans learn the chants early—before they even enter primary school. For many, it’s a family tradition.
Outside, the pre-match scene is just as electric. Pubs like O’Leary’s and Lilla Saluhallen buzz with anticipation. Food trucks serve warm local fare—elk burgers, lingonberry sodas, and classic Swedish korv med bröd (hot dogs). Inside, the stadium’s view of Lake Storsjön offers a dramatic backdrop, especially in winter when snow piles up along the pitch edges and the floodlights reflect off the white blanket.
TRADITIONS AND CHANTS
CLUB ANTHEM VERSES
Östersunds FK’s club song is more than just a melody—it’s a rallying cry, a poem to perseverance. Sung loudly before kickoff, it connects generations of fans. Below are two verses:
“Här i Jämtland, där hjärtat slår,
Östersund, vi står och vi går,
Mot seger i snö och sol,
Vi kämpar tillsammans, det är vår stol.”
“Vi reser oss gång på gång,
Med styrka, passion och sång,
Ingen storm kan ta oss ner,
Vi är ÖFK – vi ger mer!”
ICONIC CHANTS
- “Vi är ÖFK! (klapp klapp klapp)” – Sung before kickoff, this chant builds energy and unity.
- “Heja Östersund, vi viker aldrig ner!” – A call-and-response chant used when the team is under pressure.
- “Alla till arenan!” – A rally cry spreading across social media and banners before big fixtures.
One fun tradition? When ÖFK scores, fans throw red confetti in the air, creating a blizzard of color. Kids in the North Stand often wear painted red and black stripes on their cheeks, while some older fans wear retro kits from the club’s early days in the lower divisions.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND FIXED SEATS
Östersunds FK offers a tiered membership system designed to reward loyalty and deepen fan engagement. From casual attendees to die-hard season ticket holders, there’s something for every supporter.
| Membership Type | Price (SEK) | Main Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 300/year | Newsletter, 10% shop discount, access to pre-sales |
| Premium | 950/year | Fixed seat, 20% discount, VIP event invites, exclusive scarves |
SEASON TICKET DETAILS
- East Stand: SEK 2,200 – includes fixed seat and early cup ticket access
- North & South Stands: SEK 1,500 – more family-friendly pricing
- VIP Section: SEK 3,800 – includes lounge access and meet-the-players evenings
Special bundles are available during the holidays. For example, the “Winter Warrior Pack” includes a beanie, gloves, and a scarf in club colors, plus two match vouchers. Members also get digital access to behind-the-scenes content via the ÖFK app, including player interviews and locker room footage.
FACT OVERVIEW – GOOD TO KNOW
- Classic Threads: The 2017 Europa League kit, red with black sleeves, remains legendary among fans.
- Forum Legends: “JamtLandKing” and “RedNorthman” on Sportsforum.se post detailed matchday previews and historic trivia.
- Iconic Memes:
- “Frozen Arsenal” – British fans in shock during the 2018 snow game
- “Snowman Ref” – when a linesman wore so many layers he looked like Olaf from Frozen
- “Jämtkraft Fog” – a running joke about foggy matches where no one could see the ball
- Legendary Matches: ÖFK 2–0 Galatasaray (2017) – the night the club stunned Europe.
- Notable Events: Youth Day sees 2,000+ local students attend for free, singing in harmony.
- Player Chants: “Sema, Sema!” for Ken Sema and “Hoppa med Hosam!” for Hosam Aiesh.
- Snow Traditions: Snowball halftime battles among kids are a spontaneous winter feature.
- Fan Art: East wall murals depict ÖFK’s rise from lower leagues to European nights.
COMMUNITY VALUE
Jämtkraft Arena is more than a ground. It’s a place where memories are made, songs are shared, and friendships forged. From toddlers in ÖFK onesies to 80-year-olds with season passes older than the players, the community presence is undeniable. The unity is tangible, especially on matchdays when the city seems to breathe in sync.
As longtime fan Maria, 67, puts it: “I’ve seen this club rise from the bottom. And every time I step into the stadium, I feel like I’m home.”
Erik, 29, who attends with his son, shares: “My father brought me here. Now, I bring my boy. We sit in the same seats. That’s football family.”
Hanna, 22, a university student and drum leader in the East Stand, says: “Chanting for ÖFK is therapy. It’s where I find my people.”
Whether you’re a tourist in town or a lifelong local, Östersunds FK welcomes you in. The club’s story is still being written, and every voice in the crowd helps shape it.
For more in‑depth information on this topic, see the resources linked below, which provide additional insights and explanations.
Dictionary – Stats & Records
Dictionary – Stadiums & Arenas
Dictionary – Sports & Leagues
Dictionary – Fans, Tickets & Matchday
Dictionary – Equipment & Gear
FAQ – JÄMTKRAFT ARENA
Where can I park when attending a match at Jämtkraft Arena?
Parking around Jämtkraft Arena is limited, especially during matchdays. The stadium has a few small public lots nearby, but these tend to fill up quickly. Some spaces may be reserved for team buses or personnel, so it’s important to follow local signage on event days.
Overflow parking is sometimes made available in designated areas a short walking distance from the stadium. These are typically marked with temporary event signs.
– Arrive early to secure a spot close to the venue.
– Consider using public transport or taxis to avoid parking congestion.
– Always obey local traffic instructions and avoid unauthorized parking zones.
If you have a disability and require accessible parking, it’s best to contact Östersunds FK in advance to reserve a space close to the entrance.
What items are allowed through security at the stadium entrance?
Visitors entering the stadium must pass through security checks, including bag inspections. Small bags, such as handbags or compact backpacks, are usually permitted. However, large backpacks or luggage-sized bags may be denied entry for safety reasons.
Power banks are generally allowed if they are compact. Personal cameras and smartphones are fine, but professional-grade cameras with detachable lenses may require prior authorization.
– Avoid bringing large bags or umbrellas.
– Sealed plastic water bottles may be accepted, but glass containers are prohibited.
– Flags and banners are allowed if they meet size and pole material guidelines.
Check the club’s official site or contact staff for the most up-to-date item policy before attending. If you have medical needs requiring special items, bring documentation and notify security in advance.
How accessible is the stadium for wheelchair users?
The stadium is designed to be accessible to visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available and clearly marked near key entrance areas. These sections offer good visibility and space for caregivers or companions.
Accessible restrooms are available throughout the venue and are signposted for easy access. Ramps are installed at primary entry points to assist those using mobility devices.
– Wheelchair seating can be reserved when purchasing tickets.
– Service animals are permitted, but it’s best to notify the venue in advance.
– If you require assistance on arrival, contact the club’s staff before matchday.
Visitors with disabilities should consider arriving early to navigate the area more comfortably and secure any necessary accommodations.
How do I get to the stadium using public transport?
Public transport is a convenient way to reach the venue on matchdays. City buses in Östersund offer routes that drop passengers within walking distance of the stadium. Most fans use lines that stop near the Odensala district.
The nearest major train station is Östersund Central, located roughly 3 km from the venue. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi, or walk if weather permits.
– Bus schedules may be adjusted for major events, so check ahead.
– Tickets for public transport can usually be bought via mobile apps or kiosks.
– If traveling from outside the city, plan connections in advance.
Using public transportation helps avoid parking issues and reduces travel time, especially during busy events.
Are heated areas available for fans during cold weather?
Yes, the stadium includes heated indoor sections within the main stand. These areas are particularly useful during winter months when outdoor temperatures in Östersund can drop significantly.
These heated zones are accessible to fans with tickets in specific seating categories, such as VIP or hospitality packages. Some family sections also benefit from partial indoor access or enclosed corridors.
– Dress warmly even if you have indoor access, as outdoor areas are still exposed.
– Check your ticket category to see if it includes heated seating.
– Indoor areas may have limited space, so arrive early if you need shelter.
Fans with health or mobility concerns might prefer tickets in sections close to indoor facilities for added comfort.
Can I bring children to matches, and are there family-friendly zones?
Children are welcome at matches, and there are dedicated family seating areas that provide a safer and more controlled environment. These sections are typically located near the east stand, offering easier access and less crowding.
These zones are designed to be quieter than supporter-heavy areas and are close to restrooms and concession stands. Stadium staff are also available nearby to assist with any needs.
– Children under a certain age may receive discounted or free admission (check with the ticket office).
– Strollers may not be allowed in seating areas but can often be stored near entrances.
– Baby-changing facilities are available in accessible restrooms.
Parents should arrive early to get settled and familiarize themselves with amenities like exits and nearby help desks.
Are stadium tours available for visitors outside of matchdays?
Stadium tours are not offered on a regular daily schedule, but they can sometimes be arranged by directly contacting the club, Östersunds FK. These tours may include access to seating areas, press zones, and possibly locker rooms, depending on availability.
Tours are more likely to be available during off-season periods or on non-matchdays when the stadium is not in active use. Group tours for schools or organizations may be accommodated with advance notice.
– Contact Östersunds FK via email or their official website to request a tour.
– Provide your group size, preferred dates, and any special requirements.
– Tour availability may be affected by team schedules or maintenance work.
If you’re planning a visit, it’s best to inquire well in advance for the best chance to secure a guided experience.
What is the best time to arrive for a match to avoid crowds?
To avoid long lines and ensure a smooth entry, it’s recommended to arrive at least 60–90 minutes before kickoff. Gates usually open well ahead of the match, giving fans time to find their seats, purchase food or merchandise, and use facilities without the rush.
Arriving early also helps avoid delays caused by security checks, especially when large crowds are expected. Fans who arrive too close to kickoff may face long queues at entrances and miss the start of the game.
– Early arrival allows time to explore the fan shop or grab refreshments.
– Families and visitors needing assistance should plan for extra time.
– Public transport may be less crowded when arriving earlier.
Planning ahead also gives you flexibility in case of unexpected delays like traffic or weather conditions.
Is there a fan shop at the stadium, and what items are sold?
Yes, there is a small fan shop located within the stadium. It sells official Östersunds FK merchandise, including jerseys, scarves, hats, and other branded apparel. The shop also offers souvenirs such as keychains, mugs, and posters.
The fan shop is typically open on matchdays and during special events. It may also operate limited hours during the week, especially during the football season.
– Payment methods usually include cards and mobile payments.
– Sizes for clothing run from children’s to adult XXL.
– Stock may vary based on the team’s schedule and new releases.
If you’re looking for specific items, it’s a good idea to visit early, as popular sizes or products can sell out quickly on high-attendance days.
What should I know about fan culture and atmosphere at the stadium?
The atmosphere at the stadium is known for its passionate but family-friendly environment. Fans of Östersunds FK are close-knit and supportive, often creating a welcoming vibe for both home and visiting spectators.
The supporter section is lively, with coordinated chants and flag displays, particularly during key matches. However, even in general seating areas, fans show strong local pride.
– Regional derby matches, such as those against GIF Sundsvall, tend to have higher energy.
– While spirited, the crowd is respectful, and incidents are rare.
– Visiting fans usually have a designated section and are treated well by stadium staff.
If it’s your first visit, consider sitting near the home section to experience the full energy of the crowd while still enjoying a safe and comfortable environment.