Europa Open Air concert and banknote survey set for 20 August
The European Central Bank and Hessischer Rundfunk will host the free Europa Open Air concert at Weseler Werft in Frankfurt on 20 August 2026. The cultural event will feature live musical performances alongside an interactive ECB information stand showcasing future euro banknote designs.
Symphonic sounds and currency designs
The Europa Open Air concert takes place at Weseler Werft in Frankfurt on Thursday, 20 August 2026, with gates opening at 16:00 and admission remaining completely free.
Co-hosted with Hessischer Rundfunk, the event features performances by the Frankfurt Radio Big Band and the Frankfurt Radio Symphony, alongside guest artists Kurt Elling and Richard Galliano. Beyond the musical program, the European Central Bank will host an information stand focused on the next generation of euro banknotes.
Visitors can view ten shortlisted design proposals organized around two primary themes: 'European culture' and 'Rivers and birds'.
ECB experts will be present to discuss the proposed concepts, and attendees can participate directly in a public survey to share their views on the future banknotes.
Bridging culture and public outreach
The annual outdoor concert reflects the central bank's commitment to engage with its host city of Frankfurt while celebrating shared European culture.
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde noted that music creates a shared experience that transcends borders and brings Europeans together.
The gathering integrates public outreach into a cultural event, giving citizens direct access to central bank experts outside formal settings.
Detailed schedules are available on Hessischer Rundfunk's website.
Soft power with strings attached
Pairing an open-air concert with a banknote survey is a clever soft-power move for central bank outreach.
It transforms currency design into an accessible civic experience, reaching people outside financial circles.
Yet, whether festival attendees will genuinely focus on banknote feedback remains doubtful.