Celebrating Europe in Hamburg
Europe Weeks (German: Europawochen) takes place annually in spring and is celebrated across Europe, including in Hamburg. The festival is rooted in Europe Day traditions: 5 May marks the founding of the Council of Europe, while 9 May commemorates the 1950 Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundations for the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), a predecessor of today’s European Union.
Culture, Politics and Exchange
The event programme reflects the many ways in which Europe shapes life in Hamburg. Numerous associations, cultural institutions, political organisations and educational groups come together to organise a varied programme that explores European politics, history, society and culture.
Visitors can attend film screenings, concerts, talks, exhibitions, readings and panel discussions, while more interactive events include workshops, pub quizzes, city tours and escape games. Many events are free of charge and encourage people to engage with European topics, exchange ideas and discover the diversity of cultures represented in Hamburg.
A Wide-Ranging Programme
One of the best-known parts of Europe Weeks is the Lange Nacht der Konsulate (Long Night of the Consulates), which traditionally opens the festival. During this event, consulates and cultural institutes across Hamburg open their doors to visitors and offer insights into their work, national traditions and cultural programmes. Food, music, dance, art exhibitions and performances all contribute to the atmosphere of international exchange.
The wider programme often includes guided tours of Hamburg neighbourhoods, harbour tours with a European focus, discussions on current political developments and special activities for school classes. Interactive projects such as the “Unlock Europe” escape game introduce younger audiences to themes such as peace, security and European cooperation.
Europe Weeks 2026
In 2026, Europe Weeks takes place from 30 April to 31 May under the motto “Europa – Gemeinsam auf Kurs” (“Europe – Setting the Course Together”). Around 50 events are planned across the city, with topics ranging from politics and history to art, literature and music.
The 2026 festival opens with the 13th Lange Nacht der Konsulate (Long Night of the Consulates). Following the opening event at the MARKK Museum, 21 consulates and cultural institutes invite visitors to experience intercultural exchange through exhibitions, performances, food and music.
A full programme of events and further information can be found on the official Europe Weeks website.
Date:
30 April – 31 May 2026
