Quick Facts: Holiday Highlights
- Period: Winter holidays Thüringen, February 16 – 22, 2026
- Romantikerhaus Jena: Shadow theater “Hyazinth und Rosenblütchen”, Feb 18 at 3 PM
- Kunstsammlung Jena: Children’s tour “Map of Cosmic Colors”, Feb 20 at 2 PM
- Target Group: Children from approx. 6 years and families
- Costs: Admission for children often only 1 Euro
Jena (Feb 12, 2026) – When temperatures outside are still wintry and schools close their doors for a week, many parents in Jena face the classic question: how to channel the energy of the younger generation? The 2026 winter holidays, officially running from February 16 to 22, offer a diverse program in the Saalestadt and the surrounding area that skillfully combines education and entertainment.
Fairytale Magic at the Romantikerhaus
Jena, as one of the historical centers of Early Romanticism, uses its cultural heritage for its youngest residents. A special highlight awaits families at the Romantikerhaus in the street Unterm Markt. There, the philosophical fairytale “Hyazinth und Rosenblüthe” by the poet Novalis is being staged for the theater.
On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 3 PM, the event room will be transformed into a shadow theater. The story follows two young lovers whose relationship is tested by the inner restlessness of the protagonist, Hyazinth. His journey in search of wisdom eventually leads him to a surprising realization. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to gently introduce children to classical literature without overwhelming them. Admission is very family-friendly, priced at 3 Euro for adults and only 1 Euro for children.
Cosmic Journeys at the Kunstsammlung
Those who prefer to let their gaze wander into the distance will find what they are looking for at the Kunstsammlung Jena at the Markt. The current special exhibition, “Hiroyuki Masuyama. Making Friends with Aliens,” runs until early March and is a visual experience for all ages. The Japanese artist combines natural forces, time, and light in his works. Particularly impressive is his reproduction of the Milky Way, composed of countless small images, as well as a giant glowing sun.
Specifically for holiday-goers, there is a guided tour titled “Map of Cosmic Colors” on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 2 PM. This is not just about looking at artworks; following the exploration tour, children can get active and create their own “intergalactic” pieces of art. As places are limited, prior registration is requested.
Looking Beyond: Regional Excursions
For families willing to take a short trip, neighboring cities also offer exciting programs. The combination of modern technology and creativity is particularly popular this year:
- Gera: At the association “Virtuosen und Schmierfinken,” everything revolves around animated films. In workshops, children can create stop-motion films—either traditionally with clay or digitally via an app.
- Erfurt: The state capital honors the writer Mirjam Pressler. Writing workshops dealing with the theme of growing up take place at the Galerie Waidspeicher—ideal for older children and teenagers.
- Nordhausen: For those who don’t mind the journey to northern Thüringen, the local Jugendkunstschule offers activities ranging from AI architecture to 3D printing in a Minecraft style.
Conclusion: No Room for Boredom
The 2026 winter holidays show that cultural institutions have long understood the importance of participatory offerings. Instead of just consuming, children in Jena and the surrounding area are encouraged to participate, craft, and reflect. In an era often characterized by fast digital consumption, shadow theater and painting workshops provide valuable islands of calm and concentration.
We wish all school children and their families a relaxing and eventful holiday week!