German city Frankfurt will be marking 175 years of democracy in May. With a slew of activities and events from May 18-21, the city will commemorate the formation of Germany's first freely elected parliament. Titled 'Paulskirchefest', Frankfurt's festival of democracy is a tribute to St. Paul's Church (known as Paulskirche in Germany), which served as a meeting point for Germany's first national assembly.
"Frankfurt's Paulskirche is one of the most important symbols of our democracy today. Especially in today's world, characterized by global upheavals, it is becoming clear that the memory of the origins of democracy is astonishingly topical," said Frankfurt Mayor Dr Nargess Eskandari Grünberg.
Expect fun activities, history detours and musical nights at this 4-day saga of democracy. Visitors can immerse themselves in experiences ranging from theatre performances, special exhibitions to lectures and discussions. Multiple events await to take you through the formation of the first German National Assembly. Watch the premiere of "The Frankfurt Paulskirche &ndash a singular place" documentary at the German Film Museum.
Organized by Frankfurt Tourist Congress Board (TCF), the anniversary celebrations will also have artistes like Alice Merton, Max Herre, Joy Denalane and others perform. In a program titled 'An Ode to Democracy,' visitors will experience facets of democracy with light projections.
Hailing the festive spirit to mark 175 years of democracy, TCF Managing Director Thomas Feda said, "The 175th anniversary of the first National Assembly in the Paulskirche is a great opportunity to offer national and international guests a special festival democracy with an outstanding program."
Besides, different aspects of democracy will be discussed through symposia, lectures, discussions and workshops. The focus will be on making Europe-related activities visible in Frankfurt, said Eileen O'Sullivan from EU Affairs.
The EU Affairs Coordination Office will also take visitors for an information spree through its Europe-centric festival. Guests will also get to engage in discussions about diversity and social participation.
Frankfurt's town hall, 'The Romer,' will also allow visitors to experience democracy through exhibitions, theatre performances and much more.