On 28 and 29 October, the international PULSE Forum took place at Hanzas Perons in Riga, bringing together event industry professionals, organisers and media representatives from 17 countries. Liepāja – European Capital of Culture 2027 was also part of the forum, inspiring the opening dinner, ‘Event on a Plate’, and taking part in the panel discussion ‘The Future of Cities’.
On Tuesday, 27 October, the opening dinner, ‘Event on a Plate’, offered international media representatives and event organisers the opportunity to discover Liepāja and the coastal region through a gastronomic and audiovisual experience. The dinner programme was designed as a journey through Latvia, from the origins of breadmaking to visions of the future. Guests were also invited to savour Liepāja – to taste the flavours of our city, feel the coastal winds and experience the sense of (un)rest that inspires creativity and invites visitors to the European Capital of Culture in 2027.
The dinner concept was brought to life by Skudras Metropole and Don’t Panic Design, while the menu was created by chefs Mārtiņš Sirmais, Lauris Aleksejevs, Raimonds Zommers, Linda Ozoliņa, Žanis Raivo Behmanis and Kārlis Leitis.
On Wednesday, 28 October, Elizabete Hartmane, Head of International Relations at Liepāja 2027, took part in the panel discussion ‘The Future of Cities’. The discussion explored the impact of major events on urban development and identity, the benefits they bring to local communities, as well as the challenges and opportunities involved in pursuing ambitious ideas. Other panellists included Maris Altsoo, an Estonian creative producer and co-founder of ALL·SET; Fredis Bikovs, Director of the Riga Investment and Tourism Agency; and Raimonds Strokšs, motorsport event organiser and founder.
On both days of the forum, visitors to the Liepāja 2027 stand had the opportunity to contribute to the creation of The Fabric of Reality, an artwork by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota, by writing a letter. These letters will become part of the artwork, which will be on display in Liepāja from March to November 2027.
With less than three months to go until the opening of Liepāja – European Capital of Culture 2027, preparations for next year’s events are continuing! Thank you to the forum team for their enthusiasm and collaboration. See you next year!
Liepāja and the Portuguese city of Évora are launching a joint step challenge, inviting residents, friends, families and colleagues to take part in an active competition on the journey towards the European Capital of Culture year. The challenge will continue until 7 February 2027.
To continue strengthening local communities and promoting resident initiatives, residents of Liepāja, South Kurzeme and Kuldīga regions, along with community representatives and foundations, are invited to apply for the Liepaja 2027 programme “Neighbourliness” by November 10, 2026.
As part of the “Liepāja – European Capital of Culture 2027” program, world-renowned Canadian-American singer and composer Rufus Wainwright will perform at Liepāja Concert Hall “Great Amber” on January 30, 2027, at 6:00 PM.
