Being the European Capital of Youth or of Culture

Ultima actualizare Vineri, 06/02/2026

Visiting a European city is always a great idea. Want to make your experience even richer? Check the programme of cities that have been elected Capital of Culture or of Youth.

European Capitals of Culture

While European matters often focus on politics or economics, it’s time to highlight the richness and diversity of European cultures.

This was the idea of Melina Mercouri and Jack Lang (Ministers of Culture in Greece and France) in 1985, when they laid the foundations of the European Capitals of Culture initiative.

Selected cities become the European Capital of Culture for a period of 12 months, following a national competition based on criteria defined at the European level. Being a Capital of Culture requires a strong commitment, with a series of cultural events organised in a European context.

Over 60 cities have held the title so far, benefiting from tourism boosts, higher international profiles, and stronger citizens’ sense of belonging to Europe.

The 2026 European Capitals of Culture are:

Oulu, Finland – Running the programme “Cultural Climate Change”, Oulu emphasises courage, fairness, cultural diversity, and responsibility. The city invites audiences to rethink how culture is created, experienced, and shared, with a full year of events turning the city into a festival village.

Trenčín, Slovakia – Under the theme “Curiosity”, Trenčín promotes the connection between people, past and future, imagination and reality. Activities began in December 2025, with a major three-day opening from 13 to 15 February 2026, transforming the city into a living stage for culture.

European Youth Capital

It started out as an initiative of the European Youth Forum (a platform that brings together national youth councils and international youth NGOs in Europe) in 2009. Five years later, in 2014, the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe officially recognised the European Youth Capital title, becoming a partner of the initiative.

What does it mean to be the European Youth Capital of the year? Quoting directly from the European Youth Forum, the prize is designed to empower young people, boost youth participation and strengthen European identity.

Therefore, any European city focusing on giving young people the opportunity to contribute, speak up, and share ideas in all fields can be selected. They need to look in the same direction: changing and improving politically, culturally and economically their city and society.

The 2026 European Youth Capital is Tromsø, Norway. Known as Norway’s “youngest city,” with nearly 50% of its population under 35 and home to over 140 nationalities, Tromsø is vibrant and diverse.

Under the campaign “True North – Tromsø 2026”, young people will lead projects focused on sustainability, inclusivity, innovation, and celebrating indigenous heritage. The initiative extends beyond the city, involving youth across northern Norway and the Arctic region.

Tromsø aims to inspire Europe by promoting creativity, civic engagement, and collaboration, showing how young voices can shape the future. Explore activities and opportunities to get involved on the True North - Tromsø 2026 website, and follow updates on Instagram and Facebook.

Cities are elected approximately two years in advance. If you think your city could apply, check the requirements and consider submitting an application! Many youth organisations work closely with their municipalities to make this possible.

You can check the overview of the past and future selected European Youth Capitals.

Written by Eurodesk Brussels Link