Welcome
Frankfurt & the Rhine-Main Region: Germany’s First “World Design Capital 2026”
A general view of the skyline is seen in the city center of Frankfurt am Main, Germany, on November 28, 2025. (Photo by Ying Tang/NurPhoto) © picture alliance / NurPhoto | Ying Tang
For the first time ever, a German city has been named World Design Capital, with the honor going to Frankfurt am Main and the surrounding Rhine-Main region.
The title is awarded by the World Design Organization (WDO), an international body based in Montreal, Canada, recognizing regions that use design for social, cultural, and economic development.
The official opening ceremony on January 16, 2026, in Darmstadt kicks off a year featuring a program of over 2,000 projects and events across the region. These initiatives involve universities, creative industries, local governments, and policymakers, and will explore how design can contribute to public life, inclusive spaces, innovation ecosystems, and sustainable urban development. (DIE WELT)
Under the theme “Design for Democracy. Atmospheres for a better life,” the World Design Capital year will bring together exhibitions, workshops, festivals, and discussions that illustrate the role design can play in shaping modern cities, communities, and innovation landscapes.
Germany will be in the spotlight as Frankfurt and the Rhine-Main region host an international stage for design‑led thinking and collaboration throughout 2026.
Rowers return to their boat dock at sunset after a training session.
© picture alliance/dpa | Andreas Arnold
A cyclist rides his recumbent bicycle along the banks of the Main River in the early morning hours, against the backdrop of the banking city's skyline.
© picture alliance/dpa | Andreas Arnold
CSD in Frankfurt am Main: The Iron Bridge shines in rainbow colors
Frankfurt is setting an example: The Iron Bridge shines in rainbow colors for Christopher Street Day (CSD). Under the motto “Never silent again – Frankfurt is loud,” the Main metropolis is celebrating CSD on the banks of the Main River for the first time.
© picture alliance / greatif | Florian Gaul
The lights of the Frankfurt Christmas market shine on the Römerberg in downtown Frankfurt am Main.
© picture alliance / greatif | Florian Gaul
Frankfurt am Main at sunrise.
© picture alliance / imageBROKER | Maksim Zabarovskii
Hesse's first tiny church is being inaugurated in Frankfurt am Main.
© picture alliance/dpa | Hannes P Albert
The trees on the banks of the Main River are in full bloom in spring against the backdrop of the banking skyline.
© picture alliance / greatif | Florian Gaul
Europa Open Air Konzert in Frankfurt am Main: Around 12,000 visitors listen to the sounds of the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra...
© picture alliance / greatif | Florian Gaul
... The Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra and the European Central Bank (ECB) are hosting the free “Europa Open Air” concert at the Weseler Werft on the banks of the Main River.
© picture alliance / greatif | Florian Gaul
Visitors stroll between culture and cuisine on the banks of the Main River, with the cathedral visible in the background. With the Museumsuferfest, the banking city celebrates its cultural and museum landscape.
© picture alliance/dpa | Andreas Arnold