This year, Bodø in Norway, Tartu in Estonia, and Bad Ischl in Austria are inaugurating their tenure as European Capitals of Culture. Each location has ambitious plans for their shared cultural spotlight.

Bad Ischl, renowned as a romantic spa town favored by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi during their summers, along with 22 neighboring municipalities in the wider Salzkammergut region, intends to delve into the contrast of the stunning Alpine landscape by showcasing over 300 projects, including its darker aspects.

Tartu, long regarded as the heart and soul of Estonia, aims to elevate its visibility beyond the country’s borders with a lineup of over 1,000 events, seeking to solidify its cultural significance in northeastern Europe.

As the inaugural European Capital of Culture situated north of the Arctic Circle, Bodø aims not only to showcase the awe-inspiring Arctic nature but also to curate a sustainable cultural festival. Special attention will be given to highlighting the cultural heritage of the Sami, the Indigenous people of the region.

The official commencement of the European Capital of Culture year is scheduled for January 20 in Bad Ischl, January 26 in Tartu, and February 3 in Bodø, marking the beginning of an exciting and culturally vibrant year for these locales.