Leuven European Capital of Culture 2030

In 2030, a Belgian city will be the cultural capital of Europe. Leuven and the region of East Brabant – Leuven & Beyond – are applying as LOV2030.

What is a European Capital of Culture?

Every year, the European Union selects 2 cities to be European Capitals of Culture. The aim is to showcase Europe's cultural wealth and diversity.

In 2030, a Belgian city will be awarded the title. Leuven and the region of East Brabant are the Belgian candidates, as are Molenbeek and Namur.

Everyone LOV2030

Winning the title of European Capital of Culture is a huge opportunity to tackle major challenges together. Think of climate change and inequality. It not only strengthens culture, but also welfare, the economy, tourism and the hospitality industry in our region, both before and after the festive year.

Why LOV2030 and not Leuven2030?

Traditionally, candidates include the name of their city and the year in their project title, so Leuven2030. But that name has been in use in Leuven for years because of the climate project. Moreover, Leuven is a candidate together with the region.

So we are not choosing Leuven2030, but are resolutely going for LOV2030:

A nod to Leuven in the dialect
A reference to the English word ‘love'
Lovely connection with the region

Leuven & Beyond: collaboration with the East Brabant region

Currently, these municipalities have expressed their commitment to the project: Aarschot, Begijnendijk, Bekkevoort, Bierbeek, Boortmeerbeek, Boutersem, Diest, Geetbets, Haacht, Holsbeek, Keerbergen, Kortenaken, Linter, Lubbeek, Oud-Heverlee, Overijse, Rotselaar, Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, Tervuren, Tielt-Winge, Tienen and Tremelo.

Talks are still ongoing with other municipalities.

What are we already doing?

Leuven and the surrounding region are buzzing with cultural activities and initiatives. This is thanks to a flourishing community life and a large and enthusiastic cultural, artistic and heritage landscape.

Some examples of important Leuven projects on the road to 2030 and what such a title makes possible:

In 2025, KU Leuven will be pulling out all the stops to celebrate its 600th anniversary. Expect science festivals, exhibitions, lectures, music and dance.

Toekomstbeeld: toegang met ontvangstruimte voor bezoekers op de Grote Markt

By 2029, it will be an open house where Leuven residents, visitors and tourists will be welcome. A place where you can discover stories about the city and jointly reflect on the city’s future.