Programme
This year’s Healthy City Design 2026 programme of activities
Healthy City Design 2026 is the world’s leading forum for creating sustainable, healthy cities. The congress brings together global researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to share ideas through papers, workshops, and themed sessions. A fully inclusive and merit-based programme, everyone is invited to submit abstract by 1 April in response to the all Call for Papers – view more here.
Participants will also be able to explore innovation in the Video and Poster Gallery, participate in study and walking tours, and celebrate excellence at the Awards Programme and Dinner. HCD2026 combines knowledge exchange, hands-on learning, and networking to inspire action and shape the future of healthy cities.
Who should participate?
| • City governance and policy makers • Community leaders and voices • Urban designers and planners • Public health practitioners • Commercial property developers • Health and social care planners • Sustainability and ESG practitioners • Academics and researchers • Economists and social scientists | • Occupational therapists • Institutional investors • Business leaders • Technology leaders • Real estate investors • Senior public servants • Environmental groups • Architects and engineers • Housing developers | |
Speaker Programme
The programme agenda is carefully curated through a competitive, peer-reviewed process. Each year, an independent programme committee evaluates over 150 abstracts submitted in response to the Call for Papers (launching soon), selecting the most innovative and impactful research, case studies, and practice-based contributions. These presentations are combined with keynote addresses and sessions from leading global and local thought leaders, delivering a dynamic agenda of research, innovation, and practical insights for shaping healthy, sustainable cities.
Video + Poster Gallery
The HCD2026 Video and Poster Gallery showcases cutting-edge research, best practice projects, and innovative urban developments. Posters are displayed in the main networking area, while digital versions and accompanying five-minute videos bring each project to life on the event’s virtual platform and mobile app, extending visibility and engagement before, during, and after the congress.
View last year’s Healthy City Design 2025 Video + Poster gallery
Healthy City Design 2026 Awards Programme and Dinner
The HCD2026 Awards Programme celebrates excellence in research, practice, and innovation that advances healthy, sustainable cities. The awards culminate in a prestigious evening Dinner, offering delegates the chance to network, share achievements, and recognise outstanding contributions to the field of urban health and design. The Awards Call for Entries launches in March 2026
Study and Walking Tours
Healthy City Design 2026 offers immersive study visits to major new urban design and infrastructure projects, alongside guided walking tours of exemplar city developments. These experiences give delegates first-hand insight into innovative approaches, sustainable solutions, and best practices shaping healthy, liveable urban environments.
