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FINLAND – “Rovanienmi the Ultimate Christmas Wonderland in Finnish Lapland”

Rovaniemi, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, is globally renowned as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Each winter, this iconic destination draws visitors from all over the world, offering an unforgettable Christmas experience in a magical setting. The Santa Claus Village, located right on the Arctic Circle, is Rovaniemi’s main attraction. Visitors can … Read more

ROMANIA – “Oradea, a true gem of Transylvania”

Oradea, a true gem of Transylvania, stands out as a must-visit destination during the holiday season thanks to its enchanting Christmas market. Every year, Union Square (Piața Unirii), surrounded by stunning Baroque buildings with colorful facades, transforms into a magical Christmas village, attracting visitors seeking tradition and authenticity. Oradea’s Christmas market features a wide array … Read more

HUNGARY – Key Outcomes from the EU Directors-General Meeting on Urban Matters in Budapest

On November 27, 2024, the EU Directors-General for Urban Matters (DGUM) gathered in Budapest to advance the Urban Agenda for the EU. The meeting highlighted the launch of two new partnerships in 2025: Building Decarbonisation and Water Sensitive City.These initiatives are designed to tackle climate change by promoting energy-efficient buildings and sustainable water management in … Read more

SPAIN – “Zaragoza a Magical Blend of Christmas Traditions and Local Heritage”

Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon, is an ancient city, was founded by the Romans as Caesaraugusta, conquered by the Arabs in the eighth century, in the early twelfth century was liberated by Christian troops, and became the capital of Aragon. Zaragoza is famous for its art and architecture, folklore and gastronomy.The most important historical buildings … Read more

CZECH REPUBLIC – “Brno with its iconic christmas tree”

Brno, the capital of Moravia, continues to reinvent Christmas with its iconic tree at náměstí Svobody (Freedom Square), a symbol that blends tradition and modernity. What makes this celebration truly innovative is its ability to merge history, solidarity, and immersive experiences for visitors while staying true to its origins. Brno, in the Czech Republic, celebrates … Read more

INTERNATIONAL – COP29: Toward Universal Financial Contributions to Climate Action

The 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in global efforts to combat climate change. On November 14, the European Parliament adopted a resolution calling for fair and ambitious financial commitments to achieve post-2025 climate goals. Socially Fair Climate Financing … Read more

NETHERLANDS – “Gouda by Candlelight”

Gouda, famous for its iconic “Gouda by Candlelight” event, offers a unique spectacle each year that transforms its historic city center into a fairy-tale setting. On Friday, December 13, 2024, the city will be illuminated by thousands of candles, providing visitors with a magical and unforgettable experience. The cobbled streets, sparkling canals, and medieval buildings … Read more

Advent Calendar – Discover the Most Innovative Christmas Markets in City Centers Across Europe

The holiday season is the perfect time to experience the magic of Christmas markets, and this year, we invite you to explore a special Advent Calendar that highlights medium-sized European cities and cities from the Centre-Ville en Mouvement network. Every weekend, we will take you on a journey through innovative Christmas markets where tradition meets … Read more

SPAIN – Tackling the energy transition in the housing sector: learnings from Ghent, Getafe and Mataró

The European Urban Initiative article explores key initiatives for integrating the energy transition in affordable housing across European cities. In Ghent, Belgium, the ICCARUS project helps “captive owners”—homeowners unable to afford necessary energy-efficient renovations. Through financial support and technical guidance, ICCARUS offers up to €30,000 per household, with a revolving fund model that makes energy … Read more

EUROPE – Cop29 and climate activists outside European courts: photos of the day

Captures impactful scenes from the COP29 summit in Baku, alongside significant events worldwide. At COP29, NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Nick Hague delivered a message from the International Space Station, highlighting the urgency for climate action. Held in Azerbaijan, a major oil and gas producer, COP29 faces unique challenges as it aims to keep global … Read more


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*This event is not organized by the French Government. However we have been allowed by the French Government to use the emblem of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union.