Kulturnacht Laufenburg 2026

One Night, Two Countries, Both Banks of the Rhine

Kulturnacht Laufenburg is one of the most remarkable cultural events on the southern High Rhine. On Saturday, September 5, 2026, the 21st edition runs from 6 PM to 11 PM — cross-border in both Laufenburgs: the Baden Laufenburg in the Waldshut district (Baden-Württemberg) and the Swiss Laufenburg in the canton of Aargau. The old Rhine bridge connects both halves of the originally single medieval town, which was only politically divided in 1801 by the Peace of Lunéville.

2026 Theme — 'Unlimited Colour'

This year's theme 'unlimited colour' sets a clear focus: openness, diversity, boundless culture across the Rhine. In the narrow alleys of the medieval old town, in the studios of local artists, in museums, galleries, and in specially opened private gardens, readings, concerts, dance performances, film premieres, architecture talks, exhibitions, and culinary stops will take place simultaneously. The program brochure will be published from August 2026 on the festival website.

Artists and Program

Kulturnacht brings together both established and local artists. In the past, the Klezmer ensemble KlezFire!, the cabaret artist Tante Friedl, and the duo Patti Basler & Philippe Kuhn have performed on stage, among others — acts that regularly return to Kulturnacht. In addition, there are open studios of painters, sculptors, and photographers, where the public can watch the artists at work.

OK Kulturnacht — A Dedicated Team

Kulturnacht is supported by the volunteer organizing committee OK Kulturnacht, which curates anew each year. Current members are Roland Kaufmann (President), Franziska Winter (Organization), Ursula Jutzi (Finance), Roland Sens (Marketing), Reto Weiss (Operations), Manuela Schneider (Networking), and Marie-Christine Plattner. The team works closely with both municipal administrations (DE and CH) and the High Rhine tourism association.

Laufenburg — Twin Town on the High Rhine

Laufenburg is one of the oldest towns on the High Rhine — the Baden side belongs to the Waldshut district in Baden-Württemberg, the Swiss side to the canton of Aargau. Both halves of the town share a common medieval history, an Alemannic language, and a strong identity as a twin town. Kulturnacht is the most important joint event of the year — equivalent to the cross-border Carnival in February.

Admission and Concept

The festival is designed as a 'strolling' event: you walk through the alleys, listen, watch, eat, and move on. There are traditionally no identity checks at the border crossing — but you need valid identification if you want to visit both sides. Admission to most venues is free; individual concerts may charge a small fee.