During the year 2025 the City of Mechelen was granted the title European Volunteer Capital. As the Title and the flag will be handed over to Maia (Portugal) there will be a closing ceremony in the Cathedral of Mechelen, in collaboration with Vlaams Steunpunt Vrijwilligerswerk vzw, focal point for IVY2026 in Flanders. After the closure the event will open formally the IVY2026, in presence of the Flemish Minister of Culture (and coordinating minister for volunteering). The event is open to politicians, volunteer organisations, companies and other possible stakeholders.