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European Green Capital 2026 Opening Ceremony – Guimarães

The Opening Ceremony of the European Green Capital 2026 marks the official start of Guimarães’ Green Capital year, bringing together EU leaders, ministers, mayors and city representatives to reaffirm a key role of cities in Europe’s green transition.

Guimarães officially launches its year as the European Green Capital 2026 with a high-level Opening Ceremony, bringing together EU institutions, national authorities and city leaders to celebrate cities as drivers of the green transition.

Guimarães, European Green Capital 2026, officially launches its Green Capital year on 9 January 2026 with a high-level Opening Ceremony in Portugal.

The day begins with a political commitment ceremony at Teatro Jordão, featuring welcome addresses from the Mayor of Guimarães, the Portuguese Minister of Environment and the European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy. The discussions will [please align the tense throughout the whole text] focus on the crucial role of cities in delivering the European Green Deal, followed by a dialogue between mayors shaping Europe’s green transition.

Presentation and signing of the Guimarães Declaration, reaffirming local commitment to a greener Europe, will be a highlight of the programme. The agenda also includes dedicated sessions for mayors, city practitioners and technicians, as well as site visits and network meetings.

The day concludes with a grand public Opening Ceremony at Multiusos de Guimarães, including a press conference, reception and official celebrations marking the start of Guimarães’ European Green Capital year.

@Guimarães
  • award | urban habitat
  • Friday 9 January 2026, 09:00 - 15:00 (WET)
  • Guimarães, Portugal
  • External event

Practical information

When
Friday 9 January 2026, 09:00 - 15:00 (WET)
Where
Teatro Jordão
Av. Dom Afonso Henriques 321, 4810-431 Guimarães, Portugal
Languages
English, Portuguese
Organisers
Municipality of Guimarães

Description