Free Cultural Scene Celebrates Return of Erfurt's Annual Theme - Erfurt revives 2026 cultural plans with €200K grant for unconventional art spaces
Erfurt has reversed its decision to cancel the 2026 cultural theme due to financial concerns. Instead, the city has launched 'KulturOrtsWechsel – A Grant Program to Conquer Unconventional Spaces', inviting artists and creative professionals to submit ideas. The program, with a total budget of €200,000, seeks projects across all disciplines and genres that focus on a specific location. Artists, initiatives, associations, and creative professionals can submit their ideas until January 15, 2026.
Lisa Hilpert, a board member of Ständige Kulturvertretung Erfurt, welcomes the city's decision, finding it encouraging for the independent arts community. The city's previous invitation to cultural practitioners and citizens to propose ideas for a shared annual theme in May was met with criticism, making this new funding call a positive turn of events.
Erfurt's 'KulturOrtsWechsel' program aims to activate cultural activities in unconventional city spaces. With €200,000 available, artists and cultural actors are encouraged to apply by January 15, 2026, to bring innovative and engaging projects to life.
