Kichevo, 25 February 2026 (MIA) – Today marks the start of the cultural mission of Kichevo as the 2026 City of Culture. It’s not only a title, it is also a recognition of cultural maturity, tenacity and creative energy the town has been carrying for decades, said Minister of Culture and Tourism Zoran Ljutkov speaking at an event launching “Kichevo – 2026 City of Culture”. By the end of the year, Kichevo will host over 150 events, concerts, plays and shows by local renowned artists.

Addressing on Wednesday representatives of cultural institutions and non-governmental organizations, Ljutkov said the Ministry of Culture and Tourism has secured four million denars for activities aimed at supporting quality and versatile program that will highlight the town’s cultural potential.

 “Throughout 2026, Kichevo will be turned into a year-long cultural stage that will unveil the rich cultural and historical legacy, multicultural tradition and the modern creative energy,” said the Minister adding that the program features festivals of traditional and modern music, theatre plays, shows and multimedia projects, literary readings, film screenings and educational workshops. 

Kichevo Mayor Aleksandar Jovanovski said the Ministry’s decision is a recognition of the rich cultural legacy and the modern creative energy pulsating in Kichevo today. 

“Kichevo has always been at the crossroads of cultures, languages and traditions. Today, we can proudly say that Kichevo is the guardian of the past and creator of the future,” he said.

“Kichevo – 2026 City of Culture” is financed with around ten million denars with four million provided by the Ministry and the rest by the Municipality of Kichevo. 

Photo: MIA