100 Years of Green Fingers – Osnabrück Festival Year 2026

A Century of Green Fingers

In 1926, an urban development vision emerged in Osnabrück that was far ahead of its time: the Green Fingers. Instead of encircling the growing city with concentric rings, urban planning opted for a radial system of 13 open space corridors that extend from the open countryside into the city center. One hundred years later, this concept is Osnabrück's hallmark — and a model that is attracting attention nationwide.

Function and Significance

The Green Fingers serve multiple functions simultaneously:

• Local recreation for all city districts — no residential area without a green corridor within reach
• Fresh air supply from the surrounding area into the city center
• Habitat connectivity for animal and plant species
• Climate regulation in times of urban heat islands
• Cultural and sporting spaces for neighborhood life

Festival Program 2026 — Green Fingertip Feelings

The anniversary motto Green Fingertip Feelings plays with imagery and emphasizes the city's delicate, mindful relationship with its open space corridors. The festival program includes around 50 events throughout the year.

Kickoff on March 6, 2026

The festival year was opened on March 6, 2026, with the opening of the Ziegenbrink Nature Experience Area. The new nature experience area in the south of Osnabrück marks the start of the anniversary year.

Summer Highlight: Adoption of the Charter

In the summer of 2026, a Green Fingers Charter will be adopted. It formulates binding principles for the protection, further development, and maintenance of the open space corridors for the coming decades. A festive ceremony will honor the concept.

Types of Events

• Excursions in individual Green Fingers with expert guidance
• Openings of new paths, playgrounds, and experience areas
• Ceremonies with the city leadership and experts
• Participation opportunities for citizens for further development
• Educational programs for schools and families
• Art and cultural projects in the corridors — see special edition Kulturnacht 2026

Visibility Throughout the Year

The festival program runs from March to December 2026 and brings the Green Fingers concept to all city districts. Citizens can actively participate, walk along, and voice their opinions.