Velbert's Cultural Space: Highlights and Developments in February 2026

Cultural and Event Operations Velbert: Personnel and Strategic Decisions

In February 2026, the first meeting of the operational committee "Kultur- und Veranstaltungsbetrieb Velbert" took place. Important personnel decisions were made during this meeting. Andrea Thom was appointed as secretary and Angelika Nürenberg as deputy secretary of the committee. In addition, the introduction and appointment of further qualified citizens and advisory members took place, including Jutta Hille, Christine Jost, Herrmann-Josef Schmitz, Furkan Aktas, Melanie Enders, Ryan Eßer, Eda Kanber, and Pascal Otterbeck. These personnel changes reflect the strategic orientation of the cultural and event operations, which will focus increasingly on diversity, inclusivity, and cultural participation in the coming years.

Velberter Kulturloewen: A Strong Brand Presence

The brand "Velberter Kulturloewen" is now firmly established in the region. In February 2026, the operational committee was informed about the activities and successes of the previous year. In 2025, a total of 620 events took place in the four cultural venues: Forum Velbert, Historisches Bürgerhaus Langenberg, Vorburg Schloss Hardenberg, and IMS-Arena. Particularly noteworthy are the event highlights such as the sold-out concert by the band Höhner as part of their 11+11 Tour and the New Year's Special "50 Jahre Roland Kaiser," which attracted 271 guests.

The Velberter Kulturloewen offer a broad event portfolio ranging from concerts and theater to comedy and film. A special highlight is the cooperation with the Starlight Musical Academy and the Musik- und Kunstschule Velbert, which made the project "NPW GOES FILM – Game of Thrones meets James Bond" possible. Additionally, the concert by the Neue Philharmonie Westfalen and the musical "Der Zeit(ungs)sprung" are among the cultural highlights of 2025.

Another focus is the development of a cinema with local proximity and a special ambiance, which is intended to complement the cultural offerings in the future. In addition, a special tariff is offered for non-profit organizations in Velbert, which can cover up to 80% of rental costs. This measure underlines the social commitment of Velbert's cultural offerings.

Event Technology, Collaborations, and Future Perspectives

Another focus of the meeting was the presentation of event technology and collaboration opportunities. Particularly the IMS-Arena, which is fully leased to the SSVg, offers flexible spaces for press events, conferences, and celebrations. The Skyroom is also used for open-air concerts, with collaborations with driving schools and motorsport associations being explored. The use of the parking areas of the IMS-Arena for open-air concerts is another forward-looking project that aims to creatively utilize urban space.

Quality assurance for events and ticket providers was also discussed. In-house events are pre-reviewed by staff of the cultural and event operations to ensure a high level of quality. In addition, ticket sales take place via Neanderticket, while external organizers can also use Eventim or Reservix.

Outlook 2026: Diversity and Innovation in Focus

The operational committee also provided an outlook for the year 2026. Planned among other things is an organ festival in April, in which the organ at the Historisches Bürgerhaus Langenberg will be presented in various versions. In addition, another highlight is expected in the form of a poetry slam event with Jan Schmidt and guests.

With the presentation of the quarterly report for the 4th quarter of 2025 and the planning of the seasons for 2026, Velbert is well positioned to emphasize its cultural diversity and quality in the coming years. The Velberter Kulturloewen remain a central attraction for residents and visitors alike.

Conclusion: Velbert as a Culturally Vibrant City

Velbert has a strong instrument in the cultural and event operations to promote cultural participation and a sense of community in the city. The personnel and strategic decisions made in February 2026 show that Velbert is not only relying on a broad range of cultural offerings but also on innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration. With the development of a cinema, the introduction of a special tariff for non-profit organizations, and the use of new spaces such as the IMS-Arena for open-air events, Velbert demonstrates that cultural development is not only part of the city's history but is also being shaped with a forward-looking perspective.