Light, a metaphor of life and rebirth. But also energy, fire, heat. Perhaps, for these reasons, many European capitals of culture have chosen to dedicate a space of their activities to this theme. Individual actions and artistic works, chapters, but also entire bidbooks are dedicated to light. Let's take a look at some of them.

Exactly one year until the starting shot: the European Capital of Culture Esch2022 will officially open in February 2022. To this end, the southern Luxembourg city of Esch-Alzette has joined  forces with 10 surrounding municipalities in Luxembourg and 8 municipalities in neighboring France, the CCPHVA  (Communauté de Communes Pays Haut Val d'Alzette). 

The Finns to produce a several million euro ice show of the beloved H. C. Andersen fairytale classic “The Snow Queen”, aimed at arenas and arena promoters starving for family audience content.

The successful path of Matera 2019 and in particular its ability to involve the living strenght of the territory, stimulating the active participation of the public, were the focus of an online meeting dedicated to the teams of the Portuguese cities competing for the title of European capital of culture 2027.

Every year, two countries of the European Union nominate one city for the title of European Capital of Culture, which in 2028 will be hosted by the Czech Republic and France.