Tram christening, expert discussions and border walk from May 22nd to 25th
From May 22nd to 25th, 2025, the science city of Darmstadt will be celebrating Europe. For the European Weekend, Mayor Hanno Benz guests from eleven European partner cities as well as from Nahariya (Israel) . The program includes encounters, exchanges, and events – from a tram christening to the traditional border walk with an ecumenical service.
Mayor Hanno Benz: "Celebrating and strengthening Europe as a peace project"
At the opening on Friday, May 23, Mayor Hanno Benz emphasized:
“In a time of great challenges, it is particularly important that we come together, initiate joint projects and celebrate the European idea – as a globally unique peace project.”
The fact that Nahariya is represented again, despite the tense situation in the Middle East, is a strong sign of solidarity.
Expert discussion, tram christening and border crossing
- Friday, May 23:
Following the official welcome, there will be a panel discussion on "Digitalization in Urban Development" with examples from the partner cities. Afterwards, there will be a visit to the Fraunhofer IGD . In the evening, the city will host a European reception. - Saturday, May 24:
The day begins with the christening of a tram named "Nahariya." Following this, at 11:00 a.m., the traditional boundary walk from the Böllenfalltor tram depot to the Geibel blacksmith shop in Eberstadt. There, the German Red Cross (DRK) and the Swing Sound Orchestra will provide refreshments and music.
New this year: An ecumenical service will be held at 3:30 p.m. at the final rest stop, organized by the Working Group of Christian Churches. - Participation & Tickets:
Advance tickets cost €9 (children: €4.50) and include a day ticket for the entire fare zone 4000. They are available at the Citizens' Advice Centre at Luisenplatz and at the district offices in Arheilgen, Eberstadt, and Wixhausen. On the day of the event, tickets cost €10 or €5 respectively. - Connections:
Starting point Böllenfalltor (lines 5 and 9), return journey from Eberstadt Marktstraße (line 6, buses EB and M2).
A final get-together at the Herrngarten café
The European weekend concludes with a joint dinner, a farewell to the guests, and participation from the partner associations and the citizens' committee .
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/dk)
