European Heritage Days 2026 scheduled for September

The 43rd edition of the European Heritage Days is scheduled to take place on September 19 and 20, 2026. Originally established in France in 1984 by Jack Lang, the event has expanded to approximately 50 countries, attracting over 20 million visitors annually.

The 2026 themes are ‘Heritage of Photography’ and ‘Heritage in Peril: Revive, Resist, Reimagine’. The first theme focuses on the technical and artistic achievements of photography and its relationship with historical monuments. The second theme addresses the protection and preservation of archives and heritage sites for future generations.

In regions such as Alsace, the event will feature unique visits, conferences, and access to cultural sites, religious buildings, and industrial locations that are typically closed to the public. Due to high demand, organizers recommend using official platforms to reserve visits, often starting in late August or early September.