Darmstadt invites visitors to concerts, readings and discussions until December
The Jewish Cultural Weeks 2026, running from September 1st to December 6th, offer a diverse program of music, readings, lectures, workshops, guided tours, comedy, and performances. The cultural weeks are organized by the Jewish Community of Darmstadt in cooperation with the City of Darmstadt. The aim is to highlight Jewish life and its cultural diversity in Darmstadt and the surrounding region.
Mayor and Head of Cultural Affairs Hanno Benz describes the Jewish Cultural Weeks as an important sign of openness and cohesion: “Jewish culture is an indispensable part of our city and our identity. It has shaped Darmstadt for generations and continues to enrich our cultural life today. The Jewish Cultural Weeks make this vibrant diversity visible and, especially in times of rising antisemitism, send a clear message against hatred and exclusion, and in support of respect, solidarity, and the protection of Jewish life.”
Daniel Neumann , chairman of the Jewish community of Darmstadt , also emphasizes the social significance of the event series: "The Jewish Cultural Weeks are far more than a cultural festival: They are a confident commitment to visible Jewish life and a bridge-building project in the heart of our society."
Opening with Michel Friedman and Paul Ronzheimer
The Jewish Culture Weeks will open on Tuesday, September 1st, at 7 pm in the Centralstation. After a welcome address by Hanno Benz and Daniel Neumann, the publicist and philosopher Michel Friedman and the journalist and podcaster Paul Ronzheimer the topic "Democracy under pressure – challenges for Jewish life in Germany".
The Israeli-Ukrainian trio Exodus Express will provide the musical entertainment . Afterwards, visitors are invited to a reception with Israeli specialties.
Admission to the opening event is free. Registration is required.
The complete program of the Jewish Cultural Weeks 2026 is available on the website of the Jewish Community of Darmstadt.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/jdi)
