On September 19 and 20, 2026, Bühnen Köln invites everyone to a grand opening festival at Offenbachplatz.
After several years of renovation, Bühnen Köln is opening its doors again to the people of Cologne and visitors from the region. Over two days, guests will have the opportunity to explore the renovated venues, take a look behind the scenes and enjoy a diverse cultural programme.
The Eröffnungsfest brings together music, theatre, entertainment and opportunities to participate. Around Offenbachplatz and inside the various venues, visitors can expect concerts, stage performances, interactive activities and special programmes for children and families.
A special part of the weekend will be the discovery tours through the theatres. Visitors can explore areas that are normally accessible only to artists, technicians and theatre staff and learn more about how the venues work behind the scenes.
On Saturday, September 19, the programme will run from 12:00 to 23:00 and will focus on a varied rock and pop programme on the open-air stage. Artists include Dana Schechter & Paul Wallfisch, Moor Mother, Dakh Daughters, Moka Efti Orchestra and Chilly Gonzales and Band.
Sunday, September 20, will offer a varied programme for visitors of all ages. Alongside music and performances, there will be creative and interactive activities, a drum-building workshop, family entertainment and „Sing mal mit der Maus“. In the evening, the Neustartkonzert will take place at the Opera House, featuring the ensemble of Oper Köln, Kasalla and the Gürzenich Orchestra. The concert will also be broadcast live on Offenbachplatz.
When:
September 19 — 12:00–23:00
September 20 — 11:00–22:00
📍 Where: Offenbachplatz, Cologne
🎟️ Admission: Free
The festival takes place around Offenbachplatz as well as inside the Opera House, Schauspielhaus, Kleines Haus and Kinderoper. Some discovery tours require free registration, while many other events can be attended without prior registration.
The Eröffnungsfest is an opportunity to discover the renovated Bühnen Köln and celebrate the return of cultural life to Offenbachplatz together with the city.
👉 The full programme and current visitor information are available on the official Bühnen Köln website.
https://buehnen.koeln/eroeffnungsfest
