2024: Opening of European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024

As the European Capital of Culture for 2024, Tartu organized a grand opening event for the title year on January 26, focusing on accessibility and sustainability. One of the event’s goals was to create an accessible and inclusive environment where all participants, including those with special needs, families, the elderly, and non-Estonian speakers, felt welcome and included.

With innovative solutions such as real-time translation systems, accessible viewing platforms, and thorough advance preparation, the Tartu 2024 Foundation team was able to create a unique and inclusive cultural event that brought together thousands of people. The opening of the Capital of Culture received widespread recognition from local and international guests and highlighted Tartu’s commitment to creating inclusive and sustainable cultural events. The timing and location of the event added to its uniqueness, as it took place on and around the Emajõgi River in the heart of midwinter, presenting a significant challenge to the organizing team.

This success story is an inspiring example of how events can be accessible and sustainable while providing enriching experiences for all participants. The opening of Tartu 2024 as the Capital of Culture serves as a model for other cities in Estonia and abroad that wish to organize similar events in the future.