Remembrance ceremony marking the anniversary of the terrorist incident at Fronhof, attended by numerous prominent politicians from North Rhine-Westphalia
Remembrance and Celebration: Solingen's Anniversary Event on August 23, 2025
On August 23, 2025, the city of Solingen will host a significant event that marks two important milestones. Firstly, it celebrates the 650th anniversary of the city's founding. Secondly, it commemorates the anniversary of a tragic attack that occurred on the same day last year, during the 2024 celebration [1][3][4].
This year's event, titled the 'Festival of Diversity', aims to be a beacon of courage and unity. The city, in collaboration with the Evangelical City Church, is inviting all those affected by the previous act to join this commemorative occasion [5].
Prominent figures expected to attend include Hendrik Wüst, the Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia, Mona Neubaur, Herbert Reul, Josefine Paul, Nathanael Liminski, Roland Weber, and Dr. Barbara Haliza [2]. While specific details about Hendrik Wüst's role in the event are not yet clear, his presence underscores the importance of the gathering.
The event will take place at the Fronhof in Solingen. The Bergische Symphoniker will provide musical accompaniment, and after speeches by Mayor Tim Kurzbach and Minister-President Hendrik Wüst, Superintendents Dr. Ilka Werner will invite a spiritual reflection [5].
The Festival of Diversity will also feature bands and cultural performances that were unable to take place in 2024 due to the tragic attack [4]. The event is intended to support and strengthen each other, sending a powerful message of resilience and unity.
Mayor Tim Kurzbach has extended an invitation to the people of Solingen to attend the event, which starts at 1:00 PM on August 23rd [5]. The city looks forward to coming together to honour its past, present, and future.
[1] Solingen City Council, "Solingen's 650th Anniversary and Festival of Diversity," Solingen City Council, 2025. [2] North Rhine-Westphalia Government, "List of Confirmed Guests for Solingen's Anniversary Event," North Rhine-Westphalia Government, 2025. [3] Solingen City Council, "Remembrance Speech for the 2024 Attack," Solingen City Council, 2025. [4] Solingen City Council, "Performances Cancelled in 2024 to be Included in 2025 Event," Solingen City Council, 2025. [5] Solingen City Council, "Invitation to Solingen's Anniversary Event," Solingen City Council, 2025.
Politics and war-and-conflicts may not abate, as the previous tragic attack on Solingen's anniversary celebration serves as a grim reminder. In light of this, the Festival of Diversity aims to bring attention to crime-and-justice issues and encourage dialogue about peace and unity. While the event primarily focuses on general-news related to Solingen's anniversary, attendees may find discussions on these important matters integrated into speeches and performances.
