From Local Values to a Shared Future - Regional Conference in Makád

How can a local initiative become an important asset for an entire region? What makes a community event sustainable over time, and how can local heritage, community initiatives and sustainable tourism reinforce one another? These were some of the questions explored at the HelyiÉRTÉK Regional Conference, held in Makád on 24 September 2026 and organised by the Contemporary Architecture Centre (KÉK) as part of the Interreg PlaceCRAFT project.

The conference brought together local and regional examples from across the area, looking at how existing local assets and initiatives can contribute to community life, tourism and regional cooperation. The programme opened with PlaceCRAFT, followed by presentations on contemporary approaches to cultural heritage, community-based development and the role of architecture and participatory processes in shaping local places.

The second session focused on the strength of local initiatives and the importance of collaboration. The story of Makád’s Rock Vígkend showed how a community-led cultural event can grow into an important regional programme, while the experience of Balatoni Kör highlighted the role of cooperation among local businesses in developing tourism. The final session explored different ways of building on local assets, with examples including Nyitott Porták in Zalaszentgrót, Vadvirágom in Szigetszentmárton, the Makádi Termelői Piac, community gardens and heritage-focused festivals.

The professional programme was followed by the first Szigetzug Tourism Breakfast, launched with the intention of creating a new tradition in the region. The informal gathering brought together representatives of municipalities, civil organisations and tourism businesses to meet, exchange experiences and continue the conversations started during the conference.

Both the HelyiÉRTÉK Conference and the Tourism Breakfast reflected the PlaceCRAFT approach: building on existing local values, initiatives and relationships, and creating opportunities for local stakeholders to work together towards more sustainable community life and tourism.