The road to
2032.
From a local idea to a European bid. Explore the milestones and the next steps.
2017
An idea takes shape
Business leaders in Helsingør come together around the idea of a European Capital of Culture and establish an interest group.
2021
The association is founded
Elsinore 2032 becomes a shared platform for residents, associations, businesses and cultural institutions.
2023
Children shape the future
In workshops, 250 schoolchildren create their visions of the future city and its communities.
2025
The conversation grows
Creative workshops and meetings across the Øresund bring more perspectives into the work.
2026
TO BE becomes the shared title
The city council backs the application work. The Elsinore 2032 association and Helsingør Municipality develop the candidacy together with the cultural sector and community.
October 2026
First application submitted
The first 'bidbook' is submitted to the Ministry of Culture for preliminary selection. In November, the two Danish candidate cities present their applications to an independent EU jury.
2027
Denmark’s host city is selected
Cities that move on from the first round work on their final applications. By the end of the year, the host city is designated based on the EU jury's recommendation.
2028–2031
Developing collaborations and ideas
If Helsingør is awarded the title, the years leading up to 2032 will be used to develop art, European collaborations and opportunities to take part. Artists, young people and local communities should help shape the work.
2032
The year we are working towards
Denmark will host a European Capital of Culture. Helsingør’s ambition is to receive the title and build collaborations that continue beyond the year.
Beyond 2032
What carries on
Our ambition is for new relationships, artistic experience, skills and opportunities to create to become a lasting part of cultural life. The bid process should also strengthen collaboration, whatever the outcome of the competition.
Helsingør is a candidate. The title has not yet been awarded.
Read about the official selection processRead the story behind the bid