Just under a week before the start of the European Football Championship, construction of the "Fan Zone" in Leipzig is in full swing. According to the organizers, up to 15,000 people will be able to cheer in front of two giant screens in front of the Opera House and Gewandhaus from 14 June. Especially on the four match days in Leipzig - three preliminary round matches and one round of 16 - the organizers are expecting a huge turnout with colourful fan marches.
Free admission
In addition to Berlin, Leipzig is the only venue in eastern Germany and in Saxony there will also be a "Fan Zone". This will be open on all 31 days of the tournament. Admission is free of charge.
The match on June 21 between the Netherlands and France is likely to be particularly challenging from the city of Leipzig's perspective. According to the organizers of the "Fan Zone", up to 40,000 fans from the Netherlands are expected to attend.
Clueso and Die Prinzen at the Fanfest
In addition to the live broadcasts of the matches, fans can expect a spectacular supporting programme with a Ferris wheel, a small soccer pitch, a gaming area and numerous musical highlights. The techno marching band Meute will kick off the event on June 14, followed by singer Clueso on July 5 and Leipzig band Die Prinzen on July 9. On the final day on July 14, pop fans can look forward to Dieter Thomas Kuhn. There will also be soccer freestyle workshops with reigning German champion Chris Bröker.
Since a good half of the European Championship matches will not kick off until 9 p.m., Leipzig has relaxed the regulations on disturbing the peace at night during this time - i.e. for restaurants, bars and other locations in addition to the fan festival. According to the public order office, matches may still be shown outdoors after 10 p.m., as the city announced on request. However, an exemption permit is required, which restaurateurs must apply for in advance.
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