Oulu and Trencin have been designated the new European Capitals of Culture for 2026 as of the new year. Oulu is recognized as the northernmost major city in the EU, while Trencin, located about 2,000 kilometers to the south, takes on this title after Chemnitz, which held it last year alongside the twin border city of Nova Gorica/Gorizia.
Both cities have organized comprehensive event programs for this year. Oulu will kick off its cultural celebrations with an opening festival from January 16 to 18, featuring a variety of activities including concerts, acrobatics, car tuning, and ice hockey, Finland’s national sport.
In Trencin, the official opening is set for February 13 to 15. Organizers plan to transform the newly renovated historic old town into a vibrant cultural stage filled with music, art, and community gatherings. Situated a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Vienna, Trencin aims to embrace its role as Capital of Culture, showcasing its charm to both Slovak and international visitors.
EU Cultural Initiative
Each year, the title of European Capital of Culture can be awarded to two or three cities from different EU countries or closely associated states such as Norway. This EU initiative aims to celebrate Europe’s cultural diversity and recognize the unique culture and art of each region.
Athens was the first city to hold the Capital of Culture title 40 years ago. Since then, four German cities have also received this honor: West Berlin in 1988, Weimar in 1999, Essen with the Ruhr region in 2010, and Chemnitz in 2025. In 2027, the title will go to Liepaja in Latvia and Évora in Portugal. (January 1)
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