Up to 100,000 people expected at the Capital of Culture celebrations

The organizers are expecting up to 100,000 visitors for the opening of Chemnitz as European Capital of Culture on 18 January. The highlight will be a big show at the Karl Marx Monument, the details of which are still under wraps. What is known, however, is that an old steam locomotive will be pulled through the city center by numerous people in a spectacular event. On the one hand, this is intended to draw attention to the city's rich industrial history. On the other hand, the action is a symbol of collective action, said Lars-Ole Walburg, who is responsible for the artistic program of the opening ceremony.

An official ceremony is also planned in the opera house, as well as a changing program on three stages in the city from the afternoon. At the same time, numerous Capital of Culture projects will be presenting themselves in the Stadthalle throughout the day. Following the opening show, a rave is planned in front of the town hall before the festival continues in the clubs.

Celebrating cosmopolitanism and diversity

"It will be a day where international images of Chemnitz are broadcast to the world," emphasized Walburg. As the Capital of Culture, there is an opportunity to show what investments in culture, people's commitment and European exchange can achieve, added Stefan Schmidtke, Program Director of Kulturhauptstadt GmbH. "Here we can show that encounters and togetherness promote understanding and tolerance." The opening is intended to celebrate openness to the world, diversity and solidarity and to oppose those who question democratic values.

Chemnitz shares the title of European Capital of Culture with Nova Gorica in 2025. More than 1,000 events are planned for this. The program is entitled "C the Unseen".