10 FAQ's about LOV2030

1. What is a European Capital of Culture?

Every year, the European Union elects 2 cities as European Capitals of Culture. The aim is to promote culture, creativity and cooperation between European cities, highlighting Europe's cultural diversity. These Belgian cities have received the title before: Antwerp (1993), Brussels (2000), Bruges (2002) and Mons (2015). In 2030, it will be our country's turn again.

Find out more about the European Capital of Culture

2. Why is Leuven and the region applying?

More than half a million people live in Leuven and the region. We are a people-sized region, with a rich past and a vibrant cultural life. The cultural and creative sector is flourishing as never before. LOV2030 wants to further develop its dynamic arts and culture scene to connect with other European cities both locally and internationally.

3. Where did the name “LOV” for this candidacy come from?

Older people of Leuven pronounce the city's name as 'leive' [lɛivɘ], which sounds like 'leven' or 'life' in Dutch. Younger people say “luive” [lʌvǝ], which sounds like the English “love,” meaning “love. The name choice for LOV is deliberate, because love is essential to fulfill our mission: Together we strive for a better future for Leuven and the entire region. We do this by making radical new connections. LOV is not only our name, but also our mindset.

Want to know more about our name or our mindset? Read about it here!

4. What is the role of the East Brabant region in this candidacy?

Cooperation is in the DNA of the region. We accomplish projects, for and with residents, across sectors and borders. That is our strength and where we make a difference. We focus on connecting the city with surrounding municipalities and creating a broad program that showcases both urban and rural aspects of the region. By joining forces, we strengthen the entire region.

Curious as to which cities and towns have declared their commitment to LOV2030? Find out here!

5. What can LOV2030 do for the region?

The candidacy can have a positive impact on culture, welfare, economy, tourism, hospitality... Both during the preparations and after the festive year itself. This offers more opportunities for cooperation between different communities. If we win, 2030 will be a peak cultural year for all inhabitants of the region and visitors from far and near. We are aiming for 3 million national and international visitors.

But what does that mean exactly? Inspiring examples of such activities can be found in our LOV stories.

6. What is the mission of LOV2030?

LOV stands for radical coexistence and embracing differences and uncertainties. LOV connects rich and poor, educated and uneducated, urban and rural. It mixes culture and heritage with education, innovation, sustainability, and bridges gaps we may not yet know.

Read all about the mission of LOV2030 here!

7. How will sustainability be integrated into the plans?

HumanNature is the central theme of LOV2030. It focuses on green initiatives, making events more sustainable and strengthening collaboration around climate-conscious cultural projects. This project is an opportunity to tackle challenges together such as climate, growing inequality, poverty or polarization. Culture is our secret weapon. The city and region can become a model region for the whole of Europe.

How will we approach this? Read more in our first bid book.

8. How do you become a European Capital of Culture?

In September 2024, we convinced the jury with the first bid book - the official candidacy - and a strong presentation. We advance to the final selection. For the second round, we have to submit a comprehensive bid book, elaborating the artistic program for 2030. We will be visited by the jury and make another presentation in the month of September 2025. On September 24, 2025, the decision will be announced.

9. What other cities are competing for the title?

In 2030, 1 Belgian city will be awarded the title. Besides LOV2030 - Leuven & Beyond, Molenbeek and Namur are also candidates. On September 24 2025, an international jury will announce which Belgian city holds the title. Cyprus will also provide 1 European Capital of Culture in 2030. Finally, 2 non-EU candidate member states will compete for the title of European Capital of Culture in 2030: Lviv (Ukraine) and Nikšić (Montenegro).

10. What can I do for this project?

No LOV2030 without our LOVers! Together we are building radical new connections in Leuven and beyond. Together we are fighting for the title of European Capital of Culture 2030. Would you like to help spread the LOV as a partner, volunteer or LOVely friend? Join the LOV!

Join us!