Festival of Cultures Osnabrück 2026

The City of Peace as a Stage for the World

Osnabrück bears the title City of Peace for good reason: part of the Peace of Westphalia was negotiated here in 1648, and the legacy of cultural exchange is embedded in the city's fabric. The Festival of Cultures has translated this tradition into a vibrant format for over two decades. In 2026, the program will be expanded further: two full weeks from September 13th to 30th.

Opening Weekend: September 13th and 14th

The opening weekend focuses on international stage concerts. On Saturday, from 7 PM to 11 PM, two top acts from the Eastern European world music scene will perform:

• Dikanda (Poland) — Slavic, Balkan, and Klezmer influences, carried by the charismatic voice of Anna Witczak
• Divanhana (Bosnia-Herzegovina) — a contemporary interpretation of the Sevdah tradition

Sunday, September 14th — Traditional Festival of Cultures

On Sunday, from 1 PM to 7 PM, the market square becomes a meeting place. Over 60 associations from around 25 nations will present themselves: dance groups, music ensembles, traditional costumes, language schools, and diaspora associations. The international cuisine ranges from West African specialties and Syrian finger food to South American empanadas and Vietnamese spring rolls. Families, long-time residents of Osnabrück, and refugees meet on equal footing.

Two Weeks of Accompanying Program

Between the opening weekend and September 30th, the festival will utilize other venues in the city for readings, films, workshops, discussion forums, and concerts. Schools, migrant organizations, cultural centers, and religious communities will open their spaces. The exact accompanying program will be published a few weeks before the festival begins.

Organized by: Office for the Culture of Peace

For years, the festival has been managed by the Office for the Culture of Peace of the City of Osnabrück, a unique municipal body in Germany. It not only coordinates the festival but also the Osnabrück Peace Days and long-term educational work against racism and discrimination.

Free Admission, Everyone Welcome

The main stage programs at the market square are free of charge. Registration or suggested donations may apply for selected accompanying events. The city views the festival as a conscious statement against growing nationalism and in favor of an open, diverse Europe.