Things to Do

A kaleidoscope of performances, festivals, fairs, music and arts

Written by Garry on

 
© Internationale Tanzwochen
© Greg
© Greg

Many famous architects from around the world have left their mark in the region of Rhine Ruhr. Exceptional examples include the opera house in Essen, designed by Finnish Alvar Aalto in the late nineteen fifties. Music lovers can also choose to hear world-class offerings in such places as Bonn and Düsseldorf.

The state of North Rhine Westphalia invests highly in promoting and maintaining the arts, for example the K20 and K21 in the capital. Bonn boasts the Museums Mile (Museumsmeile) with many buildings including the House of History (Haus der Geschichte), which has the topic of Germany on display in its permanent exhibition.

Art enthusiasts can hunt for pieces in a vast number of galleries across the region, whilst the treasure trove of events, stage performances, festivals and fairs offer something for virtually everybody. Those coming later in the year can enjoy mulled wine (Glühwein) and tasty morsels on dozens of traditional German Christmas markets.

International Dance Weeks

Outstanding dance performances in front of highly enthusiastic audiences provide the recipe for a unique stage experience. Cutting edge dance companies from places in four countries such as New York and Sao Paulo appear this season.

Pets

Bringing a pet is relatively easy, however, dogs need to be registered when they accompany a family relocating to Düsseldorf. Owners may then take their pet virtually anywhere including out to dinner. Dogs need to be micro chipped, vaccined and licensed.

Gas Lanterns

Some sixteen thousand gas lanterns adorn the streets of Düsseldorf, making the city the largest urban area covered by this aged technology. Some say the warm glow is second to none, others fear for their safety.