News

ECOC Echo is a European partnership dedicated to ensuring that the legacy of the European Capitals of Culture (ECoC) continues to benefit regions long after their spotlight year.

The Liepāja 2027 Foundation, together with culture and sustainability researcher Kitija Balcare, has prepared eco-design guidelines to support organisers of the Liepāja 2027 programme that are not just a technical tool, but a practical companion for anyone who wants to create events.

To help applicants prepare their project proposals for the cultural tourism competition “Land of (Un)rest, Tell Us Stories!”, the Liepāja 2027 Foundation (Liepāja 2027) invites interested parties to an informative seminar on Monday, 10 November, at 16:00 in the Great Hall of the South Kurzeme Regional Council (Lielā iela 54, Grobiņa).

On October 25, the Baatas Market came alive as neighbours gathered for the “Harvest Rhythms” festival — a joyful celebration of music, creativity, and togetherness.

This week, we were delighted to welcome our colleagues from Bourges 2028 — the European Capital of Culture that will follow Liepāja — for a working visit. Over five inspiring days, we exchanged experiences on cultural accessibility, environmental sustainability, and public participation, while exploring future cooperation between Liepāja 2027 and Bourges 2028.

On Wednesday, 22 October, the Great Amber Concert Hall in Liepāja hosted the international conference “Cultural Renovation”, organised by the Liepāja 2027 Foundation (Liepāja 2027). Seeking answers to the question – does culture unite or divide? – this year’s gathering brought together culture professionals from Iceland, Sweden, Finland, France and Latvia to explore cultural accessibility and availability through talks, real-life experience stories, and hands-on workshops.

From October 19 to 21, actors from the Liepāja Theatre, the Liepāja Puppet Theatre, and the Latvia Puppet Theatre are participating in inspiring masterclasses led by choreographer and researcher Dalija Aćin Thelander.

To support the personal growth and skill development of Liepāja 2027 volunteers, a training session for volunteer team leaders was held on October 18, focusing on information-gathering techniques and team-building methods. The training was led by non-formal education trainer Staņislavs Babins.

The Skills Exchange Platform “Skill Market” goal is to promote the preservation, development, and mutual exchange of craft skills among masters from different generations, industries, and communities. Project activities will take place from October 2025 to May 2027.

The Liepāja 2027 Foundation is currently seeking several professionals to join its team as it advances the European Capital of Culture programme. The Foundation is announcing new job openings and inviting applications for the positions of Chief Accounting Officer, Producer, and Technical Director. Applications for all positions are open until 28 October 2025 at 23:59.