EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Legislation, LIVE RIGA, Tourism

Riga will share the title in 2014 with the Swedish city Umea, with bilateral cultural projects taking place between the two cities. The central Latvian town of Sigulda will also be an official partner of Riga during the event.

The aim of the European Culture Capital program is to promote the international recognition of European cities, positively influence the development of culture and tourism, stimulate artistic cooperation between European countries, and strengthen regional identity and European integration.

Since the enlargement of the European Union, this honor has been awarded every year to two cities, each from a different country. 25 years of experience has shown that cities who hold the title see a rise in economic activity along with the increase in cultural events. This is especially true in the creative industries, service industries and tourism.