Varkaus Celebrates its European Heritage Label
On 11 June 2026, the Finnish city of Varkaus marked its recent European Heritage Label designation with a day of events bringing together experts, local communities, decision-makers, and the wider public. Under the theme “Europe Starts Here”, the celebrations highlighted how industrial heritage can contribute to regional development, community identity, and Europe’s shared future.
“Europe Starts Here” Forum
The day began with the Europe Starts Here Forum, an expert and public discussion exploring the role of the European Heritage Label in supporting regional vitality and the future use of industrial heritage.
Around 80 participants, including residents, businesses, youth, stakeholders, and public authorities, took part in keynote presentations and panel discussions examining how heritage can become a driver for innovation, sustainable development, and community engagement.
The forum featured contributions from Kimmo Levä and Leena Marsio of the Finnish Heritage Agency, Miguel Senra Hermana from the European Heritage Label Bureau, and Professor Tuuli Lähdesmäki from the University of Jyväskylä. Together, they explored how the European Heritage Label strengthens cooperation between local communities and the wider European network while encouraging new perspectives on preserving and reusing industrial heritage.
The event also reinforced Varkaus’ position within the European Heritage Label community and initiated important discussions on future collaboration between local, national, and European partners.
A City-Wide Celebration
Following the forum, the celebrations continued at Taulumäki Market Square, where residents and visitors gathered for an open public event honouring Varkaus’ European Heritage Label.
The evening programme combined official speeches with live music and artistic performances inspired by the city’s industrial heritage, creating a festive atmosphere that welcomed people of all ages.
With an estimated audience of 1,500 participants, the free celebration strengthened community pride while introducing many visitors to the significance of the European Heritage Label. By connecting expert discussions with a large public celebration, the event demonstrated how cultural heritage can unite communities and foster a stronger sense of belonging.
Together, the Europe Starts Here Forum and the public celebration showcased how the European Heritage Label is more than a recognition of the past. In Varkaus, it has become a platform for dialogue, participation, and future-oriented thinking, ensuring that industrial heritage continues to play an active role in shaping both local communities and Europe’s shared cultural landscape.