New sounds from Cologne: 3 newcomers lighting up c/o pop 2026
5 days of c/o pop. 5 days of gigs, workshops, podcasts – and everything in between. But the real highlight is discovering new talent live. Here are 3 newcomers you won’t want to miss.
From industrial heritage to future hub: how raum13 is reimagining Cologne’s Deutz gas engine factory
After more than three years of standing empty, the site of Cologne’s former gas engine factory – once home to the world’s first facility of its kind – is set to come back to life. The aim is to create a permanent cultural space that drives the city’s future.
The Südstadt is buzzing, man: a neighbourhood walk with The Red Flags
Cologne’s rising newcomers The Red Flags are making waves with their feminist punk-grunge sound. On a walk through the Südstadt, bassist Joe and drummer Mika show us their favourite spots.
Beyond lit.COLOGNE – 8 events celebrating literature across the city
Fancy some literature on stage? From 7 to 22 March, lit.COLOGNE 2026 takes over the city. But Cologne’s literary game is strong all year round – here are events that go beyond classic readings. At some, you can even take the stage yourself.
Cologne’s film festivals 2026: popcorn, premieres and big screen buzz
As a major media city, Cologne hosts a wide variety of film festivals every year, with films and series taking centre stage. From international arthouse productions and investigative documentaries with feminist perspectives to bold queer storytelling, the city’s festivals show just how diverse, layered and thought-provoking moving images can be today.
Hands-on design: Passagen 2026 comes to Machwerkhaus Cologne
From 16 to 22 January 2026, Machwerkhaus opens its studios for Passagen Köln. Peek behind the scenes, discover works in progress and see how design, craftsmanship and urban creativity come to life in the heart of Kalk.
Cologne and photography – a perfect match
Cologne has a thing for photography. And it’s been going strong for decades. Discover hip photo collections, avant-garde galleries and ART COLOGNE 2025 – a guide for everyone who celebrates art with attitude.
B2B sets and basslines: Cologne’s club scene is in E.P.I.Q. fever
8 DJs, 1 mission: to make Cologne move. E.P.I.Q. light up the dancefloor – while pushing for a more diverse and fair club culture.
Gamescom and beyond: Cologne’s rise as a global gaming hub
Gaming in Cologne is more than just a passing trend. So how did Dom-town become a global HQ for devs, creators and fans alike? We explore Cologne’s gaming culture – beyond the buzz of Gamescom.
