The theme for Riga 2014 was “Force Majeure”, affirming the positive impact of culture on cities and citizens in difficult times. The programme included over 200 projects and events, notably operas, exhibitions and festivals, including one of the biggest celebrations of the summer solstice in Europe and an exhibition on the 500-year history of the printed book.

Umeå's keyword was "co-creation": they wanted "citizens to participate in the shaping, making and creation of culture" and more widely of their city.