11 August 2026
- Free open-air concert in Frankfurt celebrates Europe’s diversity
- Performances by Frankfurt Radio Big Band and Frankfurt Radio Symphony
- Ten shortlisted euro banknote designs on display at ECB stand
On Thursday, 20 August 2026 the European Central Bank (ECB) and the broadcaster Hessischer Rundfunk (hr) will once again host the Europa Open Air concert at Weseler Werft in Frankfurt. The free event brings together music, culture and community in a unique riverside setting and reflects the ECB’s commitment to engage with its host city. The theme of the event is “celebrating Europe”.
This year’s programme features the Frankfurt Radio Big Band, the Frankfurt Radio Symphony and internationally renowned artists including Grammy Award-winning jazz singer Kurt Elling and accordion virtuoso Richard Galliano. Further details on the programme and performances are available on Hessischer Rundfunk’s website.
“Europa Open Air celebrates the richness of Europe’s cultural life and the connections that bring us together,” said ECB President Christine Lagarde. “Music creates a shared experience that transcends borders and reminds us of what connects us as Europeans. This year there will also be an opportunity for visitors to engage with us and share their views on the design of future euro banknotes.”
As in previous years, the ECB will be present with an information stand, where visitors can meet ECB experts and learn more about its work.
This year the stand will focus on the design of future euro banknotes. Visitors will be able to explore the ten shortlisted design proposals currently under consideration and take part in the ECB’s public survey. The proposals are based on two possible themes: “European culture” and “Rivers and birds”.
Visitors will be able to discover how these themes could shape the next series of euro banknotes, discuss the proposals with ECB experts and share their views directly at the event.
Admission is free. The gates at Weseler Werft will open at 16:00.
For media queries, please contact Silke Köhler, tel.: +49 69 1344 8671.
