The European Union has announced the selection of Oulu in Finland and Trenčín in Slovakia as European Capitals of Culture for 2026, as part of its annual initiative to highlight Europe’s cultural and intellectual diversity and celebrate the artistic heritage and distinctive cultural identities of its cities. The designation comes under the “European Capitals of Culture” programme, launched by the European Union to foster cultural exchange among cities and affirm culture as a catalyst for social cohesion and sustainable development.
According to the European Union, the choice of Oulu and Trenčín followed a comprehensive evaluation of submitted bids, based on the quality of the proposed cultural programmes, their ability to weave together arts, heritage, and innovation, and the extent of community engagement envisioned in the activities. The title is widely regarded as an opportunity for both cities to deliver integrated, year-long cultural programmes featuring art exhibitions, performing arts, music events, and educational initiatives tailored to diverse age groups.
The two cities succeed Chemnitz in Germany’s Saxony region, as well as the twin border cities of Nova Gorica and Gorizia on the Slovenian, Italian frontier, which held the title in the previous year. Through this annual rotation, the European Union aims to give cities from different regions the chance to showcase their cultural distinctiveness and strengthen their visibility at both European and international levels.
Throughout 2026, Oulu and Trenčín are set to host a wide-ranging calendar of cultural activities spanning the entire year, designed to invigorate artistic life, support the creative economy, and boost cultural tourism. The European Union underscores that the European Capitals of Culture initiative provides a sustainable platform for celebrating cultural diversity in Europe, promoting intercultural dialogue, and building lasting bridges of knowledge and creativity between cities and peoples.