When September closes the door on summer, amazing events open up

The Reeperbahn Festival is the heart of Hamburg’s music scene in September and will once again be one of the most important gathering places for musicians from around the world in 2026. Over 400 concerts at around 80 venues on and around the Reeperbahn bring it all together: from indie music to up-and-coming newcomers to international headliners. But the festival is more than just music: exciting panels, talks, and art installations make it a melting pot of innovation and creativity. A highlight that turns Hamburg into the beating heart of pop culture in September!

Candlelight will make your September shine with unique classical reinterpretations of your favorite songs. No matter what genre you love—you’ve definitely never heard these versions for string quartet or piano before. From iconic movie soundtracks with a nostalgic twist to the best hits of the ’80s and timeless classical masterpieces, all the way to tributes to today’s stars from hip-hop, pop, rock, and more. Sit back and let yourself be enchanted by the special performances and the magical, candlelit setting .

The Binnenalster Filmfest 2026 is the perfect blend of cinema and nature! For four evenings, the Jungfernstieg transforms into an open-air cinema with a floating screen right in the middle of the Binnenalster. The lineup features classics and modern audience favorites —all set against the backdrop of the sunset over the Alster. Whether with friends or as a couple, you’ll experience magical cinematic moments under the open sky. A special highlight is the “Silent Movies”: With headphones, you can immerse yourself in the film completely undisturbed—ideal for a romantic or simply cozy movie night.

From September 11 to 13, Hamburg’s Open Monument Day invites you to discover buildings that are otherwise closed to the public. Experience the city’s architectural treasures up close and take part in guided tours, cultural events, and interactive activities —for young and old, whether for personal or professional reasons. There’s also a wide range of family and cultural programs featuring concerts, exhibitions, and much more. This year’s program will be announced soon.

In the mood for a thrilling courtroom drama where you don’t just watch but become part of the action? “The Jury Experience, ” an extraordinary theatrical experience, awaits you at EMPORIO Hamburg. Superstar Lana Tonneti’s $20-million necklace has disappeared. Her former chauffeur is under suspicion—but conflicting statements and questionable timelines raise doubts.

As jurors, you’re right in the thick of it: Analyze evidence, question witness testimony, and decide for yourselves whether the defendant is guilty or innocent. Acting, storytelling, and multimedia effects bring the trial to life.

As fall slowly sets in in Hamburg, the apple harvest also begins in the Altes Land, just a short drive from the city. Here, you can not only pick fresh apples straight from the tree but also enjoy local delicacies like apple pie and freshly pressed apple juice. The Altes Land is also ideal for leisurely walks among the orchards. Many farms offer guided tours where you can learn more about the region’s traditions.

Pick-Your-Own: €1.50 to €2.50 per kg (depending on variety and farm)

Harvest experience: often between €5 and €10 per person (includes a small tasting)

On a light-up cruise through the Port of Hamburg, you can experience the city from a whole new perspective. The illuminated container terminals, the historic Speicherstadt, and the modern cruise ships glow in the twilight. This cruise not only offers great photo opportunities but also a relaxing way to wind down after a day in the city.

Hamburg has one more real highlight in store for you as summer winds down: Through early October, you can experience the fascinating world of the oceans from a completely new perspective at the “ .” In impressive 360-degree projections , the underwater world comes to life right around you. Accompany giant schools of fish, encounter majestic whales, and discover mysterious deep-sea creatures like the bizarre anglerfish. Marvel at glowing corals, floating jellyfish, and many other fascinating sea creatures on a unique journey through the vastness of the ocean.

The Elbphilharmonie once again offers a top-notch program in September. Whether it’s classical music or avant-garde sounds, the impressive acoustics and breathtaking architecture make every concert an experience. We especially recommend the concerts in the Grand Hall, where you can enjoy the music in an incomparable atmosphere.

Once again this year, FilmFest Hamburg is bringing international cinema to the Hanseatic city. Festival theaters such as the Abaton, CinemaxX Dammtor, and Studio-Kino will screen around 120 films , including numerous premieres from around the world. A special highlight awaits audiences on October 3: On German Unity Day, admission to all festival screenings is completely free thanks to an initiative by the Ministry of Culture and Media.

On September 18, the Rudolf Steiner Haus will transform into a New Orleans-style jazz bar brimming with urban flair. Top-notch musicians on saxophone, trumpet, piano, and more will take you on a journey back to the 20th century, to the roots of this energetic genre. Look forward to iconic classics like “All Of Me” and “When The Saints Go Marching In,” and let yourself be blown away by impressive improvisations. Enjoy a soulful evening filled with passionate and rhythmic melodies that touch the heart and soul.

The Harbor Front Literature Festival features over 70 readings and talks at more than 20 venues in the Port of Hamburg. The lineup of stars ranges from international luminaries such as Nobel Prize winner Han Kang (pre-opening on September 6) to audience favorites like Caroline Wahl and Cornelia Funke. This year, the festival is placing a strong focus on the “ ” theme “USA” with high-profile guests from the worlds of culture and politics, including Robert Habeck, Francis Fukuyama, and Caren Miosga.

On September 5, the 22nd Hamburg Theater Night will transform the Hanseatic city into one giant stage. Thirty-eight venues, large and small, will offer exclusive glimpses into the upcoming season through over 200 program highlights, as well as behind-the-scenes tours and artist talks. Starting as early as 3:00 p.m., a colorful family program featuring puppet shows and interactive activities for children will kick off, before the regular program for all theater fans begins in the evening.

On September 5, 2026, Hamburg’s 13th Long Night of Literature will celebrate the city’s book culture. From noon to midnight, over 30 venues throughout the city will offer a diverse program of readings, diary slams, and poetry readings. Admission to the closing event at the Literaturhaus is free.

On September 27, 2026, Hamburg’s stores will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for the next Sunday shopping event . In keeping with the theme “Children, Youth, and Family,” visitors to the city center and many neighborhoods can expect not only shopping opportunities but also a colorful program of events with numerous activities for all ages.

The 23rd Night of the Churches kicks off in Hamburg this September! Around 100 churches invite you to over 250 free events —ranging from gospel, techno, and live music to cabaret, poetry, and exciting guided tours. Look forward to unique experiences such as the interplay of laser lights and electronic beats at St. Katharinen, science and faith in Blankenese, or a nighttime discovery tour through Hamburg’s churches. A diverse program also awaits you on the main stage on Spitaler Straße.

Experience Monet’s impressive world of art up close this September in a spectacular 360° exhibition! Over 200 works by the master of Impressionism are brought to life throughout the entire space with the help of giant projections, 360° video mapping, and spatial sound. Stroll through his famous garden in Giverny, past vibrant poppy fields, all the way to the coast of Normandy. Instead of just looking at art, you’ll be right in the middle of it, experiencing Monet’s Impressionism from a completely new perspective.