Bonn Entertainment

Bonn is more than just a pretty little town on the Rhine. Its also an active centre of entertainment with an incredibly wide range of fun and cultural things to do. There are cinemas, nightclubs, bars and theatres all within easy striking distance of the city centre. But what sets Bonn apart from other German cities is the way its small town personality permeates its nightlife scene. The large number of university students also helps to keep things fun and exciting.

Nightlife

Visitors to this quaint little city shouldnt underestimate Bonns nightlife. Theres something for everyone, whether you want to dance until the early hours at a pulsating nightclub or just relax along the river at a local pub. Thanks to the large university student population, there are several rocking discos in town.

One such club, Sharon, is only open on the weekends, but it will instantly transport you back to the 1970s with its strobe lights, spinning mirror ball and distinctly soul and funk playlist. Carpe Noctem, near the train station, plays mainly rock music, while Falle and Halli Galli have more of a hip-hop and Ibiza-style vibe. One of the most versatile venues in town is the Pantheon, which hosts a range of events such as comedy shows, live concerts and disco nights, depending on the night.

If you feel like catching a film, the Kinopolis in Bad Godesberg is Bonns largest and most modern cinema complex. You can watch the latest international films here, and many of them are shown in English.

Theatre and music

When most people think of Bonn, the name Beethoven pops into mind. The Beethoven Orchestra has become one of the citys most important ambassadors of Bonns cultural heritage by successfully promoting its musical image around the world. Since 1927, Bonn has been hosting the Beethoven Festivals.

Bonn has a decent selection of theatres right in the city centre and many others in the surrounding suburbs. The theatre tradition here goes all the way back to the Prince Electors. The art-loving citizens of Bonn built their own theatre in 1826, and this idea of private theatre continues strongly to this day. The Bonn Theatre is one of the most prominent in town, hosting the Bonn Biennial event as well as a year-round schedule of top quality performances.

The citys private playhouses and cabaret theatres have done well for themselves over the years, establishing one of the highest reputations in the country. This is highlighted in the Bonn summer concert series. From May to September, the public can enjoy a wealth of free music and global cultural events on the stage outside the Town Hall. Performances range from music and theatre to dance and literature readings.

In its attempt to compete with bigger cities such as Berlin and Hamburg, Bonn has generated an amazing calendar of cultural events. The La Scala of the Rhineland is one of the more visible events, where opera and ballet are performed at the Oper der Stadt Bonn throughout the year. The Bonn Symphony Orchestra performs regularly at Beethovenhalle, with occasional free concerts on Sunday mornings. For an intimate chamber music concert, check out the small concert hall at Beethoven House. Bonns Theatre Kasse is the best place to buy tickets and get information for every event in town (tel: +49 228 775000).

Festivals

Bonn maintains its reputation as a cultural centrepiece by hosting a number of impressive international festivals each year, most of which focus on music.

• Bonner Summer Festival is one of the largest open-air festivals in Germany. More than 100 events are scheduled around the city, focusing on the theme of dialogue between cultures (May to August).
• Rhine in Flames lights up this famous river with fireworks for one night in May. A fleet of up to 60 cruise boats disembark after sunset in a convoy from Linz to Bonn in a colourful display (May).
• The Beethoven Festival started way back in 1845 in honour of the composers 75th birthday. Today, he is celebrated with a three-day music festival featuring more than 60 concerts from international renowned orchestras, ensembles and solo artists. A festive cultural programme accompanies the events (September).
• The Putzchens Markt has been happening for over 600 years at the same location along the Rhine River. Dozens of thrilling rides, a massive Ferris wheel, game booths and food stalls make this fair one of the best in Europe (September).
• The Christmas Market sees the city of Bonn light up and bring on the seasonal festivities. Vendors sell traditional gifts, food and drinks around the Old Town. There is also an extensive musical programme throughout the season (December).