Wels Recognized as European City of Christmas 2026 in Prestigious Ceremony

The city of Wels in Upper Austria has been officially recognized as the European City of Christmas 2026, following a formal award ceremony held in Vilnius, Lithuania. This distinction is granted by the Christmas Cities Network in partnership with the European Parliament, recognizing cities that excel in organizing and maintaining outstanding Christmas celebrations and markets across Europe.

During the ceremony, which took place in the main square of Vilnius, a seven-member delegation from Wels received the accolade on behalf of the city. The group included key representatives from the municipal administration, local tourism organizations, and partners involved in the city's festive activities. Wels was honored alongside Barcelona, Spain, and Kirkop, Malta, both of which also received acknowledgments for their contributions to European Christmas traditions.

The European City of Christmas award is given to cities that demonstrate exceptional commitment to preserving and enhancing the festive spirit through innovative projects, cultural programming, and community involvement. The selection process, overseen by an international jury led by Dr. Danuta Hübner, a former European Commissioner and member of the European Parliament, emphasizes criteria such as the quality of Christmas markets, cultural richness, sustainability initiatives, and the preservation of local traditions.

Wels' recognition marks the first time a German-speaking city has received this prestigious title. The city's Christmas markets and events have gained international attention for their distinctive atmosphere, creative programming, and strong community engagement. The city's efforts include a wide range of participants--from municipal staff and local tourism representatives to artists, musicians, and volunteers--who collectively contribute to the success and unique character of the annual celebrations.

The award brings increased international visibility to Wels, positioning it as a significant destination for Christmas tourism in Europe. The city's festive events, including its well-known Christmas Market and related cultural activities, attract numerous visitors each year and have become a central aspect of the city's tourism strategy. The Christmas Cities Network, established in 2017, continues to recognize and promote cities that set exemplary standards for festive and cultural activities during the holiday season.

With this latest recognition, Wels is expected to further develop its Christmas offerings in the coming years, enhancing its appeal to both domestic and international visitors. The city aims to uphold the standards set by the award, maintaining a focus on quality, sustainability, and the celebration of European holiday traditions.