Cologne in August

Immerse yourself in Cologne's vibrant culture at the Sommerfest am Rhein! This lively street festival transforms the Hohenzollern Bridge area into a bustling hub of Kölsch music, artisan stalls, and delicious local food and drinks. It's the perfect opportunity to savor regional specialties like spießbraten and backfisch, enjoy a Kölsch beer, and experience the city's friendly atmosphere right by the river.

Unleash your inner punk rocker at the BallroomBlitz! Festival, an annual summer highlight in Ehrenfeld. This free outdoor event showcases a fantastic lineup of various punk and ska bands performing right outside the legendary Sonic Ballroom. Get ready for an evening of high-energy music and collective sing-alongs!

Calling all football fans! Join the grand celebration for the official season opening of 1. FC Köln, Cologne's beloved football club. This festive and family-friendly event takes place on the forecourts of the Rheinenergie-Stadion, bringing together thousands of fans to kick off the new football season with excitement and team spirit.

Prepare to be enchanted by the timeless magic of Andrew Lloyd Webber's 'Cats' as it graces the stage of the Kölner Philharmonie as part of the Cologne Summer Festival. This spectacular production features dazzling costumes, iconic songs, and breathtaking choreography, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience for all ages.

Experience an evening of legendary guitar mastery as Carlos Santana brings his 'Oneness Tour 2025' to the magnificent LANXESS arena. Get ready to be swept away by his iconic sound, fusion of rock and Latin rhythms, and a setlist packed with classic hits that have defined generations. A musical journey not to be missed!

Dive into the pulsating world of electronic music at the Magic Park Festival, making its debut in Cologne's picturesque Rheinpark. This exciting festival promises an immersive experience with melodic techno and trance beats that will keep you dancing from afternoon into the night. It's the perfect open-air party to embrace the summer vibes!

Get ready for a night of heartfelt ballads and pop anthems as global superstar Shawn Mendes takes the stage at the Lanxess Arena. Known for his captivating live performances and soulful vocals, Mendes will treat fans to an unforgettable show featuring his biggest hits and new material. A must-see for pop music enthusiasts!

Prepare for an electrifying evening as hip-hop icon Drake, joined by PARTYNEXTDOOR, brings his highly anticipated 'Some Special Shows 4 EU' tour to Cologne's LANXESS arena. Expect an explosive performance featuring his chart-topping hits, incredible stage production, and an unforgettable atmosphere. This is a monumental event for fans of rap and R&B!

Step into the ultimate gaming universe at gamescom 2025, the world's largest trade fair and event highlight for interactive games and entertainment! Held at Koelnmesse, this massive event allows you to discover the latest game releases, experience cutting-edge technologies, and connect with a global community of gamers and industry experts. From exclusive previews to thrilling eSports competitions, it's a dream come true for every gaming enthusiast.

After a five-year hiatus, the iconic Kölner Lichter return to set the Rhine ablaze with a breathtaking music-synchronized fireworks spectacle! Witness hundreds of thousands gather along the riverbanks to admire the stunning pyrotechnic display against the backdrop of the illuminated Cologne Cathedral. While viewing from the banks is free, special boat tours offer a truly unique perspective on this dazzling event.

Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane at the RETRO CLASH Beach Party at GLORIA! Dance the night away to the greatest hits from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, reliving the glory days of pop, rock, and electronic music. It’s the perfect way to let loose and enjoy a fun-filled evening of classic tunes and a fantastic atmosphere.