On 14–15 May 2026, representatives of the Liepāja 2027 Foundation took part in the ECoC Family Meeting in the Portuguese city of Évora, which will hold the title of European Capital of Culture alongside Liepāja in 2027. The meeting brought together representatives of former, current and future European Capitals of Culture, creating a space for the exchange of ideas and the development of new collaborations.
The two-day programme focused on discussions about the significance of the European Capital of Culture initiative and its long-term impact on the development of cities and regions. Participants explored topics including strengthening the European dimension within cultural programmes, involving local communities in project development, and creating a sustainable legacy beyond the title year.
During the meeting, the role of culture was highlighted not only as a form of artistic expression, but also as a tool for strengthening community connections, fostering a sense of belonging, and driving social and economic change. Representatives from various cities shared experiences of both challenges and successful approaches in delivering large-scale cultural programmes and international collaborative projects. Alongside panel discussions and working sessions, participants also had the opportunity to explore Évora’s cultural and historical environment, as well as its developing European Capital of Culture programme.
This year’s meeting was particularly significant as it marked the 20th anniversary of the ECoC Family gathering tradition. Over the years, this initiative has become an important platform for developing the European Capitals of Culture cooperation network, creating opportunities for sharing experience, building partnerships and transferring knowledge to future Capitals of Culture.
Participation in international meetings of this kind is also important for the Liepāja 2027 team as preparations continue for the European Capital of Culture year. Such events provide an opportunity to learn from the experiences of other cities, strengthen international connections and develop partnerships that may become part of Liepāja’s future programme.
We would like to thank the Évora 2027 team for their hospitality, warm welcome and inspiring programme. See you in Liepāja!
Particular attention among festival visitors this year was drawn to the launch of the Liepāja 2027 kite. Symbolically, it represented Liepāja’s journey towards its year as a European Capital of Culture, while also increasing the visibility of Liepāja 2027 in an international context.
Johanna is working on a feature about the Baltic Riviera – a story portraying the Baltic Sea coast as a unique destination, in which Liepāja is presented not only as a place with a distinctive seaside rhythm, bold architecture, and a unique identity, but also as the future European Capital of Culture 2027.
The Liepāja 2027 Foundation has concluded its co-financing competition for the organisation of cultural events as part of the Liepāja 2027 opening celebration programme. A total of 30,000 euros has been allocated to eleven selected events, all of which will take place on 23 January 2027, beginning at 20:00.
