Utopian Hours returned to Turin this autumn with its strongest editions to date. Organised by Stratosferica, the festival has grown into a key European platform for city-making, urban culture and civic innovation. It will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2026 by doubling up with a May (28 – 29) edition in Rotterdam.
The festival operates more like a cultural production than a conference: film crews, curated installations, magazine publishing and high-level programming sit alongside an accessible, community-focused atmosphere. La Centrale, Lavazza served as the main venue, supported by Dorado Community Hub, an ex-Lavazza warehouse in Aurora. The contrast between the corporate precision of Nuvola and Dorado’s “work-in-progress” character reflects Stratosferica’s broader approach to urban transformation: professional, participatory and rooted in real place-making.
This year’s theme, United Cities, addressed the interconnectedness of metropolitan regions and the need for shared, practical responses to contemporary urban challenges. International titles including Frame, AZURE and The Architect’s Newspaper praised the quality of the speakers, programming and production.
With steadily rising attendance and growing international interest, Utopian Hours is consolidating its role as a reference point for urban discourse in Europe. In 2026, to mark the 10th anniversary, the festival will also host a special edition in Rotterdam, extending its reach and international presence. Watch this space for updates and follow Stratosferica on Instagram to see what else is cooking.