Thomas Mann: Big anniversary with a new discussion format in Lübeck!
Lübeck will celebrate Thomas Mann's 150th birthday on June 19, 2025 with a literary discussion format in the Buddenbrookhaus.

Thomas Mann: Big anniversary with a new discussion format in Lübeck!
On June 19, 2025, a very special event will be celebrated in Lübeck: the 150th birthday of the great writer Thomas Mann. To mark this anniversary, the Buddenbrookhaus, the Heinrich and Thomas Mann Center at the University of Lübeck and the Lübeck University of Music are organizing a joint project under the motto “Lübeck hoch 3”.
This initiative includes a new literary discussion format entitled "Four in a row. Re-read Thomas Mann". In four-person panels, experts discuss Mann's stories, opening up new perspectives on their timeless topics. As hl-live.de reports, the kick-off event will take place at 7:00 p.m. in Haus Eden at Königstraße 25, with the theme “The Betrayed”. Katrin Krämer takes care of the moderation, while various experts such as Marie Limbourg and PD Dr. Katja Kauer, will take part.
This evening in particular, the opening speech by Prof. Gabrielle Gillessen-Kaesbach will be in the foreground. Musically, the program will be put together by Jakob Rieke, and singer Sarah Sieprath will present her own songs, accompanied by talented music students. Admission to this event is free, but you are advised to arrive on time - admission starts at 6:30 p.m. so you can secure a good spot.
A look at Thomas Mann's legacy
Thomas Mann, famous for works such as “The Buddenbrooks” and “The Magic Mountain”, dealt intensively with human nature and social issues. His writings still deal with central themes such as identity and values today, which makes them particularly relevant. His political commitment, especially against National Socialism, shows his commitment to freedom and human rights. These important aspects of his life and work will be examined in more detail as part of the series. According to the Goethe-Institut, Mann promoted intercultural exchange and left a lasting impression on German and European culture.
Additional events to honor Mann's work are also planned throughout 2025. The program includes the stories “Mario and the Magician” on July 17th, “Death in Venice” on October 30th and “Tonio Kröger” on November 27th. Each series of events offers the opportunity to discuss and receive Mann's works, which should appeal to both literature enthusiasts and those newly interested.
Dialogue with society
The “Lübeck hoch 3” project aims to intensify the dialogue with the citizens of Lübeck. It not only stands for the examination of Thomas Mann's valuable ideas, but also for the development of new approaches and ideas for the coexistence of people in the city. In addition to discussion events, exhibitions and concerts are also part of the program, which are coordinated through exchanges with three important institutions in Lübeck, as can be seen from the Lübeck hoch 3 platform.
Things really get going in Lübeck! Anyone who is interested in exciting literary discussions and stimulating conversations should definitely not miss the events celebrating Thomas Mann's anniversary - it will be a great pleasure for everyone involved!