Stadthof Hanau celebrates its first year with art, workshops and retro gaming
Stadthof Hanau marks its first anniversary on March 13 with a month-long celebration. The venue, known for its diverse events, has quickly become a local favourite across all age groups. This year's programme includes art exhibitions, workshops, games sessions, and discussions.
The highlight of the festivities is the House of Banksy Hanau exhibition, which opened on February 13. Spanning 2,000 square metres, it features over 150 of the artist's works—the largest Banksy collection in Europe. The show explores themes like war, inequality, and climate change, drawing on the artist's signature provocative style. Previous stops in Munich, Hamburg, and Leipzig attracted nearly 400,000 visitors, while the global touring exhibition The Mystery of Banksy has reached 3.3 million.
On March 14, visitors can join a Banksy-inspired workshop, where participants create their own street art after advance registration. The same day, the Grimm Brothers Vocational Academy (BGBA) opens its workshops to the public, offering a behind-the-scenes look at its training programmes.
Gaming enthusiasts can explore HURA – Hanau Retro Arcade, home to over 30 pinball machines and classic arcade cabinets. Free-play sessions run every Wednesday on the Agora, featuring wooden toys and marble runs for younger visitors. For the anniversary, HURA also offers free game playing on March 14, though spaces are limited to 25 people. Group bookings outside regular hours are now available.
The Anderwelt association hosts a board game day on March 21, with experienced guides helping newcomers learn the rules. Meanwhile, the Antik Trödel & Retro Market on March 14 brings together over 50 vendors selling vintage and collectible items. Other events include an Art 13 exhibition on March 13 and a children's dance session led by Berne Dance School.
Stadthof's anniversary programme runs throughout March, blending art, education, and entertainment. The mix of workshops, markets, and games events ensures activities for all ages. Organisers expect strong attendance, building on the venue's growing reputation as a cultural hub.
