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International Music Festival Hamburg

Variety of concerts on Hamburg's stages

The International Music Festival Hamburg brings top-class orchestras and soloists to the Elbphilharmonie at the end of the season – in 2026 under the motto ‘End’. A festival full of musical depth, moments of farewell and artistic new beginnings.

A Reflection on Endings – International Music Festival Hamburg 2026

The 2026 edition of the International Music Festival Hamburg is themed “End” — a concept that resonates far beyond the stage. Over the course of five weeks, top-tier artists and orchestras explore musical finales, farewells, transitions, and new beginnings. What does “end” mean in music — stylistically, historically, emotionally? Which compositions reflect it, and what visions emerge from endings?

World-Class Orchestras & Profound Programming

Once again, Hamburg welcomes leading international orchestras, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Orchestra, and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra under Sir Simon Rattle. Together with local ensembles, they create a rich and resonant programme marked by quality and depth.

Outstanding Soloists on Stage

The 2026 festival features celebrated artists such as violinists Lisa Batiashvili and Janine Jansen, cellist Sol Gabetta, and pianists Igor Levit, Daniil Trifonov, and Mitsuko Uchida. These performers embody the excellence and forward momentum of today’s classical music scene.

A Tribute to Pierre Boulez

A special focus will be placed on Pierre Boulez, who would have celebrated his 100th birthday in 2025. As a visionary of New Music, Boulez was known for his radical and forward-thinking ideas. His works will be performed by ensembles including the London Symphony Orchestra under Sir Antonio Pappano, the Cello Group of the Vienna Philharmonic, and the Philharmonic State Orchestra Hamburg under Kent Nagano.

A Season Finale with Depth

The 2026 Music Festival is more than a cultural highlight — it’s a thoughtful artistic statement on closure, change and transformation. A fitting finale to the season, inviting audiences to reflect, resonate and rediscover.

Short & Sweet

When From 1 May to 3 June 2026
Where Elbphilharmonie and Laieszhalle
First year 2014
Admission From 10 euros
Music style Classical, jazz, world music, pop

More on this subject

Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg mit gläserner Wellenarchitektur und Backsteinsockel am Wasser — © Mediaserver Hamburg / Jung von Matt

Hamburg's landmark on the Waterfront Elbphilharmonie

In building the Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg certainly put itself on the map! Our concert hall, with its impressive glass wave architecture and interior furnishings, is unparalleled anywhere else in the world.

Abendstimmung in der Hamburger Speicherstadt mit Blick auf Kanal, historische Gebäude und Kirchturm — © ThisIsJulia Photography

CITY AREA PORTRAIT HafenCity & Speicherstadt

The world’s largest warehouse complex and UNSESCO World Heritage. On the other side, towards the banks of the Elbe, the modern, ever-growing architecture of the new harbour district HafenCity. Also, you can enjoy the view of the harbour from nearly everywhere.

THIS MIGHT INTEREST YOU AS WELL Further recommendations

World renowned concert hall and city emblem Elbphilharmonie

Hamburg has a new cultural landmark! The Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall represents an unprecedented synthesis of the arts - architecture, music and the unique location in the middle of the Hamburg harbour. More than 2.6 million guests have already attended over 1,000 concerts!

Elbphilharmonie

fischmarkt_sonntagmorgen_c-2018-thisisjulia-photography-3 — © ThisIsJulia Photography

Traditional weekly market in Altona Fischmarkt

A real Hamburg classic – since 1703!

Sunday morning in Hamburg. While most of the city still sleeps, the Große Elbstraße wakes up to the bustling rhythm of the Hamburg Fish Market. For over 300 years, it’s been a place of trade, tradition and typical northern charm – full of energy, humor and harbor atmosphere.

Auctioneers, Music & Market Magic

Since 1703, almost anything that’s not nailed down is for sale – from antique teapots to freshly packed meat parcels. Legendary market characters like Aale-Dieter shout their offers into the crowd, bananas fly through the air, and fish is sold by the bucket. You’ll find fresh seafood, tropical fruit, flowers, clothing, souvenirs and much more – the market is a full-sensory experience.

Between night and morning – one iconic gathering

Party-goers fresh off the Reeperbahn mingle with early risers at the harborfront, sipping coffee or munching on a fish roll as the sun rises. For some, the day is just beginning; for others, it’s not quite over yet. The historic Fish Auction Hall from 1896 completes the experience with live music and breakfast options.

Opening Hours

Summer (April–October): Sunday from 5:00 to 9:30 AM

Winter (November–March): Sunday from 7:00 to 9:30 AM

A must-see for culture lovers, Hamburg fans and foodies alike!

Fischmarkt

langenachtdermuseen-c-Museumsdienst-Hamburg-Thorsten-Baering-web-6-2500x1500 — © Museumsdienst Hamburg / Thorsten Baering

Culture at night! Night of the Museums

The Lange Nacht der Museen will take place on 18 April 2026. Then culture-loving night owls can discover the diverse exhibitions and special programmes of over 50 museums in Hamburg with just one ticket from 6 pm to 1 am. A variety of events, such as guided tours, workshops and a special children's programme, as well as a wide range of activities in different languages will make this night unforgettable!

Night of the Museums

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