The three cities have curated special programmes for the occasion:
- Elefsina 2023 programme: “Mysteries of Transition” - Opening: 4 – 5 February
The programme has three main elements: people/society, environment and labour. Environment will have a special focus as a subject inextricably linked with the challenges Elefsina as a (post)industrial city – as well as the wider world – is facing. - Timisoara 2023 programme “Shine your light – Light up your city!” - Opening: 17 – 19 February
The programme is structured around people, places and connections. - Veszprém 2023 programme “Come shine with us!” - Opening: 21 – 22 January
The year-long programme for events includes music and dance festivals, art exhibitions, performance art and the gastro and wine scene, and much more.
The initiative was started in 1985 and has since become one of the most high-profile cultural initiatives in Europe. Cities are selected based on a cultural programme that must have a strong European dimension, including:
- Promoting participation and involvement by city inhabitants, communities and stakeholders.
- Contributing to the long-term development of the city and its surrounding region.
