Summer full of highlights: cultural events and celebrations in Cologne!

Summer full of highlights: cultural events and celebrations in Cologne!

Cologne is preparing for an exciting weekend that offers both musical highlights and social events. The focus is on two important events: the performance of Mendelssohn's oratorio “Elias” and a concert of “Tango de Cologne”. These events promise to delight locals and visitors alike.

In particular, the dramatic story of the prophet Elias will be brought to life on June 28, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in Altenberg Cathedral. Mendelssohn's work, which had its premiere in Birmingham in 1846, tells of Elias's powerful fight against people of other faiths and his inner conflicts. The composer himself characterized Elias as “strong, zealous, also evil and angry and dark,” which makes the oratorio particularly captivating. More information about the performance can be found on the event page.

A musical masterpiece

The live recording of “Elias” from 1984, which now appears as the first historic release on the Bayerische Staatsoper Recordings label, underlines the timeless significance of the work. This performance, which opened both the Munich Opera Festival and the German Catholic Day, demonstrates the stylistic versatility of the Bavarian State Orchestra. The State Opera director Wolfgang Sawallisch admits that this production has a lot of musical finesse - an experience that fans of classical music should not miss. Tickets are available from just 20 euros and further details can be found on the recording website.

But the offer for culture enthusiasts does not end here. On the same day, June 28th, the “Tango de Cologne” concert will take place in the Church of the Redeemer at 6:00 p.m. This concert is also free, although donations are welcome. A great opportunity to celebrate your passion for music and show social commitment at the same time.

Socializing and sporting activities

The weekend in Cologne also offers a variety of social activities. On June 26th, the organizers of “Eat & Greet” invite you to an after-work meeting at Diakonie Punkt Nippes – a great opportunity to get to know new people. It continues on June 27th with a new walking meeting called “Walk ‘n’ Talk”, which starts at the Luther Church.

There are also exciting offers for sports fans. The starting signal for the stadium run in the RheinEnergieStadion will be given on June 29th at 10:30 a.m., which will feature various running routes and a family festival. At 11:00 a.m. both the Clarenbach community's summer festival and a summer festival in the Lechenich community center will take place, offering festive entertainment and culinary delicacies.

For lovers of classical music, Handel's “Messiah” will also be performed on June 29th at 6:00 p.m. in the Trinity Church. There are also discounted tickets for young people and people with special needs.

Overall, Cologne has a varied cultural and leisure offering this weekend that has something for every taste. Whether musical experiences or happy get-togethers – there is something for everyone here!