Debrecen4U
December 2, 2025
How Debrecen’s Youth envision the year ahead
The message of the 12-month structure of the 2026 Youth Capital application is simple: Debrecen would give young people more space than ever before.
Debrecen and Székelyudvarhely would like to jointly win the title of Youth Capital of Hungary 2026. One of the most characteristic elements of the Debrecen application is the thematic program calendar, which provides a complete, structured arc of a year.
The city focuses on a different area every month and associates it with key events, professional programs, and community activities.
January—The Month of Talent Development
Music, art, and science workshops; scholarships; and residency programs—the goal is for young people to find their own path to prominence.
February – The Month of Public Life
Youth Parliament, student representation developments, debate culture programs, participatory budget with young people.
March—The Month of Pop Music
Made in Debrecen Festival, orchestral workshops, and introduction of young producers.
April—The Month of the City
Poetry Day, Debrecen City Day, City history walks, and Debrecen Art Week—building urban identity.
May—The Month of Movement
Move, Debrecen! Series, sports festivals, street dance, and sports programs.
June—The Month of Acting
Children’s Acting Festival, support for amateur companies, contemporary drama adaptation workshops.
August – The Month of National Identity
Youth programs related to national holidays, involvement of communities across the border.
September—The Month of Local Traditions and Cultural Values
Zamat Festival, presentation of local artists, strengthening of the Magda Szabó and Térey Cult.
October—The Month of Women
Focus on female artists, sensitization programs, and presentation of female innovators.
November—The Month of Science and Innovation
Hackathons, scientific experience days, and support for young researchers.
December – The End of the Year
Christmas programs, introduction of young artists from the Carpathian Basin, and year-end evaluation event.
The message of the 12-month structure is simple: Debrecen would give more space to young people than ever before. If the city wins the title of Youth Capital of Hungary, 2026 will not only be rich in experiences, but new initiatives will be launched that will shape the future of the city in the long term—and its young people as well.
Source and photo credit:dehir.hu
