Frequently asked questions

In 2026, Utrecht University and UMC Utrecht will jointly celebrate their lustrum: 390 years of knowledge that helps move Utrecht forward. It is a moment to show how our knowledge and innovations contribute to the city and the region. We celebrate not only our past, but also how we can collaborate with the city and its people to work towards a healthy and strong future. Come along, share your thoughts, and join us during our events and activities across the city!

Utrecht University and UMC Utrecht have collaborated for many years on research, education and healthcare in the region of Utrecht. By celebrating together, we want to show how, through knowledge and innovation, we work jointly on solutions for clean air, quality healthcare, and thriving neighbourhoods. It is our way of actively involving the city and region in what we do and what we can achieve together.

The 2026 Lustrum programme offers a wide range of events and activities throughout the city and region of Utrecht. From open conversations and interactive sessions to festivals, exhibitions and scientific demonstrations. We want to share our knowledge, but also engage in a dialogue with you and with the city. What is on people’s minds? How can we work together toward a better future for everyone? Join us, share your thoughts and ideas.

Everyone is welcome. The 2026 Lustrum is for all residents of Utrecht and the region. Whether you are a student, healthcare professional, entrepreneur, parent or neighbour, there will be an activity for you. We believe that knowledge only truly gains value when we work together, meet each other, and look collectively for solutions to societal challenges. So come along, join the conversation, and help shape the future of Utrecht.

The theme of our lustrum is “Connect. Create Change.” This is exactly what we aim to do: connect with people to share knowledge and work together on solutions that matter to the city and the region of Utrecht. From clean air to quality healthcare and vibrant neighbourhoods: we want to use the knowledge we’ve built up over the past 390 years to continue building a healthy and strong city, together with you.

There are many ways to stay updated on everything happening during the 2026 Lustrum. Follow us on social media and visit our Lustrum website to see where we’ll be, what’s on offer, and how you can get involved.

We have deliberately chosen to give the 2026 Lustrum a meaningful and socially relevant character. The programme consists of projects from Utrecht University and UMC Utrecht that are closely connected to the city and region. With our lustrum programme, we want to highlight and strengthen these connections. We engage in dialogue, listen to ideas, and work together on solutions that improve everyone’s quality of life.

The 2026 Lustrum runs from the Dies Natalis on the 26th of March until the Weekend van de Wetenschap on October 3rd and 4th. Throughout this period, we will organise many activities in the city and region of Utrecht. We’ll be out in the city and we invite everyone to join in. Visit our website for the full schedule and sign up for the activities that interest you.

For some activities you can register in advance; for others you can simply walk in. All information about registration and activities in Utrecht can be found on the page of the specific event. We warmly invite you to take part and help us build a healthy and strong city together.