Our Programme

For us, democratic design begins with programme development. WDC 2026 sees itself as a participatory platform – meaning: It's not just the outcome that matters, but also the process of getting there.


A major milestone was our Open Call 2024. In total, we received 1,200 projects and ideas – many of which have since become an integral part of our programme. In doing so, we are highlighting the creative potential of the Frankfurt RheinMain region and fostering connections between a wide range of stakeholders.

In addition, we are collaborating with numerous institutions, universities, companies, and other committed partners. And of course, there will also be events with a long-standing tradition – typical for any World Design Capital and coming to Frankfurt RheinMain in 2026.

Calendar

Project Highlights from the region

Die Mathildenhöhe ist im Sonnenuntergang vor blauem Himmel.
Mathildenhöhe – A Step Ahead
In 2026, the Mathildenhöhe in Darmstadt will celebrate the 125th anniversary of its first exhibition.
Vorplatz Jüdisches Museum Frankfurt
Mishpocha – The Art of Collaboration Jüdisches Museum Frankfurt
In addition to the exhibition at Jewish Museum Frankfurt, there are artistic presentations throughout the region. There are also concerts, performances, and a street food festival that brings together musicians and artists from around the world.
Jüdisches Museum Frankfurt
Am Radweg zwischen Frankfurt und Offenbach stehen große, bunte Leuchten.
Main-Light
Main-Light illuminates the cycle path between Offenbach and Frankfurt. It showcases what sustainable energy generation can look like – with vibrant colours and contemporary patterns.
Project Street as a Runway
Die Straße als Startbahn / The Street as a Runway
The Street as a Runway explores the use of public spaces. Streets weren’t always meant for cars. In workshops focused on kite-building and flying, people of all ages will come together in the streets.
Grafik mit gezeichneten Elementen
Urbane Raumforschung Frankfurt
Young people shaping their neighborhood! Together with experts and the local community they explore and transform public spaces. The city becomes their own project.
Project Typography for Democracy
Typography for Democracy
Typography for Democracy features several events that explore the cultural significance of typography as a bridge between cultures.
Project Kiosk of Solidarity
Kiosk of Solidarity X Bahnhofsviertel
Kiosk of Solidarity X Bahnhofsviertel is a project in Frankfurt that addresses drug use, homelessness, and social exclusion.
Project Booty Bounce
Booty Bounce
Booty Bounce is a performance project over several months that puts queer BIPoC FLINTA* individuals in Frankfurt in the spotlight, while fostering their participation in the cultural scene.

WDC events with regional and international focus

Eine Gruppe Personen, die einem Vortrag zuhören
August2026
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Aug
05
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Sep
Month of Design
August 2026 will be the Month of Design – a full month of creative happenings showcasing the diverse facets of design, making WDC 2026’s year-long activities tangible. From installations and discovery tours to exhibitions, everyone in the region is invited to participate and explore the world of design.
Colorful abstract graphic
June2026
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Fr
World Design Experience
In early summer 2026, Frankfurt RheinMain will become an international stage for designing tomorrow. For 9 days, visionary design from the region will meet impulses from around the world.
Foto der Paulskirche in Frankfurt
November2026
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3 Conferences, 3 Cities: The Future Needs Design
The World Design Policy Conference 2026 will be the global gathering for design, politics and science, aiming to establish design as a strong driver for addressing societal and political challenges. The conference will take place in Wiesbaden, Frankfurt and Offenbach.
Menschen sitzend in einem Park
November
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Nov 25
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Sa
Dec 26
FestivalHub – Space to discover, exchange and participate
The FestivalHub at Museum Angewandte Kunst is WDC 2026’s central home – a vibrant meeting point where the year’s themes come together. Here, international impulses and regional perspectives converge.
Colorful abstract graphic
April2026
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Apr
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Sep
WDC Pavilion – The Mobile Heart of Frankfurt RheinMain
Sustainably built, modular, and mobile: The Pavilion will travel through the region from April to October 2026, stopping at 5 to 7 key locations – from vibrant city squares to cultural landmarks.
Foto von Menschen auf einem öffentlichen Platz
August2026
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22
Sa
World Design Street Festival
Das Festival vereint Musik und visuelle Kunst. An 3 Wochenenden zeigt es Künstler:innen, die beide Disziplinen prägen und thematisiert die Rolle von Design und Kultur für inklusive öffentliche Räume.
Colorful abstract graphic
World Design Spotlight – Each week highlights a different WDC 2026 theme across media platforms.
This format combines established media and various channels to feature exciting contributions revolving around WDC themes.

Regular Exchange Formats

Ein Tisch mit Apfelweingläsern, einem Bembel und dem Schriftzug WDC-Stammtisch
WDC Regular's Table
Beim WDC-Stammtisch bieten wir Euch Raum zum entspannten Austauschen und Vernetzen.
Der Werkstattwagen vor der Skyline von Frankfurt.
WDC Workshop Truck on the road
Our red WDC workshop truck stops by in many places in the region. Learn more about the developing programme and get to know the WDC team.
Demokratiedeckel
Drinks for Democracy
With the Demokratiedeckel, thought-provoking questions find their way under your drinks: Share your diverse perspectives in pubs, cafés or schools!
Foto von Mitarbeiter*innen des WDC im Projektbüro
WDC consultation hour
Exchange is at the heart of WDC 2026. The consultation hour is one of the regular WDC exchange formats.

More Information on the Programme

Viele Bierdeckel mit Ideen zu Designfragen hängen an einem Plakat
Programme themes
Our programme puts a spotlight on issues that affect us all.
Zwei Personen stehen vor der Ausstellung des Werkstattwagens und unterhalten sich.
Participate
Take a look at the participation opportunities currently available.
Zwei Personen sitzen an einem Tisch im Büro und diskutieren über ein Plakat.
Programme development
Our programme is largely based on our Open Call — shaped by submitted projects and ideas, our own events and a wide range of cooperations.
Stammtisch
Contributors in the region
WDC 2026 thrives on collaboration with institutions, universities, companies, foundations, individuals and many others.
Menschen sitzen in einem Kreis auf einer Wiese bei gutem Wetter
Code of Conduct
Our Code of Conduct sets out the values and principles that matter to us. These guidelines are grounded in our democratic constitution and shape the way we work—both internally and externally.
Colorful abstract graphic
Calendar of events
Together with numerous partners from Frankfurt RheinMain, World Design Capital 2026 invites you to take part in a diverse and exciting programme!