ECoC Family Meeting 2026: Gathering in Liepāja

From 9 to 12 September, 87 representatives from 22 countries gathered in Liepāja, Latvia, for the 2026 ECoC Family Meeting. Jointly organised by Liepāja 2027 and Évora 2027, this annual meeting brings together former, current and future European Capitals of Culture to share experiences and reflect on common challenges.

This year’s edition had a particular significance as it marked the 20th anniversary of the ECoC Family, a platform for cooperation that has gradually grown into an international network for sharing knowledge and experiences among cities that have held, currently hold or will hold the European Capital of Culture title.

Looking Beyond the Title Year

Over four days, participants discussed a range of issues relating to the long-term impact of the European Capital of Culture title: international cooperation between cities, network development, public participation and the role of culture in urban development.

Particular attention was given to continuity beyond the title year: how can initiatives launched as part of a European Capital of Culture continue to thrive and have a lasting impact?

These discussions directly echoed the work being carried out by the Matrice of Bourges 2028 on the future and legacy of European Capitals of Culture. Pascal Keiser, General Commissioner of Bourges 2028, took part in discussions dedicated to these issues.

Different Experiences and Paths

The meeting also provided an opportunity to explore specific experiences, including that of Lviv, Ukraine. Yuliia Khomchyn, Director of the Institute of Cultural Strategy, presented the city’s European Capital of Culture bid and its prospects for continuing the projects and ideas developed as part of the application, despite Lviv not being selected.

Beyond the working sessions, the programme gave participants the opportunity to discover Liepāja and its cultural and urban environment, including the Karosta district. The meeting concluded with a study visit to Kuldīga, another area involved in the Liepāja 2027 programme.

For Bourges 2028, these four days provided an opportunity to continue exchanging with European Capitals of Culture and to share reflections on the future of the programme, while preparing the next stages of cooperation between cities.

Next Stop: České Budějovice

The next ECoC Family Meeting will take place from 14 to 18 September in České Budějovice, Czechia. It will be jointly organised by Bourges 2028, Skopje 2028 and České Budějovice 2028.

Photo credit: Edgar Fotos