Current event tips, concerts, exhibitions, and cultural highlights in Jena. Find out what’s happening at the Kulturarena, Theaterhaus, and the clubs of the ‘Lichtstadt’.
Looking for unique finds and vintage treasures? This Saturday, February 14, Jena-Isserstedt hosts a major flea market at the GLOBUS SB-Warenhaus. From second-hand fashion to rare collectibles, the event offers something for everyone while promoting sustainability. Discover why these local markets are trending and get expert tips for a successful hunting trip in our latest community guide for Jena.
The renowned travel and photography festival Lichtbildarena returns to Jena from November 13 to 15, 2026. Under the theme ‘Goosebump Moments,’ the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena will host emotional live reportages from across the globe. Featuring new interactive formats and a historic cinema bus, the event remains a cornerstone of the city’s cultural calendar, bringing international perspectives and breathtaking visuals to the heart of Thuringia.
This Valentine’s Day, Jena’s city center parishes are moving beyond chocolates and flowers to host a queer-sensitive blessing service. Celebrating love in all its modern forms, the event at August-Bebel-Straße 17 welcomes couples, soulmates, and best friends alike. It offers an inclusive safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community to reflect on their relationships and find spiritual strength in a welcoming, non-commercial environment.
School’s out for winter! From February 16 to 22, 2026, Jena transforms into a playground for young explorers. From magical shadow theater at the Romantikerhaus to intergalactic art workshops at the Kunstsammlung Jena, the city offers diverse and affordable programs for families. Discover how your children can combine education with entertainment this February, even if the weather stays chilly.
As schools close for the Thuringian winter holidays from February 16 to 22, 2026, Jena offers a diverse program for families. From shadow theater at the Romantikerhaus to cosmic art workshops at the Kunstsammlung Jena, the city combines education with entertainment. Discover creative highlights and regional excursions designed to keep children engaged and inspired during the break.
Jena’s photography history takes center stage as the Foto-Klub Jena ’78 celebrates its 50th anniversary with a major exhibition at the Thüringer Landtag in Erfurt. From its origins at Carl Zeiss to modern digital art, explore five decades of creative evolution. The exhibition opens on March 10, 2026, offering a unique perspective on the region’s artistic and social heritage through the lens of local photographers.
Mixed news from Schloss Hummelshain: while the iconic heraldic lions and bears are being professionally restored with national support, a fallen tree has destroyed the historical ‘Herzogsstein’ in the palace park. A new donation campaign has been launched to replace the monument in time for a major 200th-anniversary celebration in 2026. Discover how craftsmanship and community effort are working to preserve this Thuringian landmark.
A musical highlight is coming to the Saale city in late spring 2026. German band UNHEILIG has announced an exclusive open-air concert at Jena’s Ernst-Abbe-Sportfeld on May 30. As the group’s only performance in Thuringia that year, demand is expected to be high. Ticket sales have already launched for this major event in the heart of the Paradies park.
Theaterhaus Jena presents an intense solo performance of Allen Ginsberg’s iconic poem “Howl.” Premiering on February 19, 2026, this English-language production features Thato Kämmerer in a physically demanding exploration of madness and materialism. Tailored for Jena’s international community, the play bridges literary history with contemporary performance art, offering a visceral experience of one of the Beat Generation’s most influential works.
Explore Jena’s vibrant cultural scene this February! From the fascinating world of biominerals at the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität to inclusive art at the Ernst-Abbe-Bücherei, there is plenty to discover before the winter holidays begin. Our guide covers everything from local museum highlights to exciting day trips across Thüringen, ensuring you make the most of the season despite the gray weather.
