The URBACT interregional cooperation program is organizing a new edition of the Cities Festival, which will take place in Nicosia (Cyprus) from 31 March to 1 April 2026.
At this URBACT Festival, 30 stories of European cooperation, 273 examples of local actions, 500 city makers, as well as a new call for URBACT networks – for even more future stories – will be presented.
Participation in the Festival is free. Registration for the festival will begin in November 2025, and the number of places is limited to 500. The Festival is specifically aimed at local authorities from Europe, whether already involved in URBACT networks or not. The Festival is also open to representatives of regional and metropolitan authorities, experts in urban development, as well as the European Commission and EU-funded organizations.
What’s on the program in Nicosia?
Get ready for a dynamic mix of learning, networking, inspiration, and… fun!
- Marketplace and Exhibition
Explore innovative urban solutions from 273 cities involved in 30 URBACT action-planning networks – at a colorful open marketplace, opened for the first time to the wider public!
- Discover Nicosia
Get to know the historical and contemporary gems of Nicosia through guided study visits.
- Focused Thematic Sessions
Join inspiring discussions on mobility, nature-based solutions, (green) urban economy, urban planning, urban storytelling, urban health, and social data management.
- Networking with Impact
Connect with like-minded cities and European funders in specially designed spaces to foster collaboration and open new opportunities for your city.
- Fun “Nicosia After Dark”
Farewell in style! Explore the “Cities After Dark” network, where fun meets advanced ideas on the night-time economy!
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the URBACT Cities Festival 2026
- Learn which regulatory policies have succeeded (and which have not) in other European cities
- Return home with inspiring ideas that could change the future of your city
- Get details about the next URBACT call for networks
- Connect with urban colleagues and build partnerships for future projects
- Learn more about EU funds and collaboration opportunities
- Experience the URBACT Cities Festival – it’s not just another conference!
Want to be among the first to register? Subscribe to the URBACT newsletter!
In the meantime, feel the spirit of the festival by watching the highlights from previous editions of the URBACT Cities Festival.