On the second festival weekend, visitors once again gained a variety of insights into this year’s edition of IBUG, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025. Since 2006, the festival has transformed abandoned industrial or hospital sites into temporary exhibition spaces for urban art. This year, it takes place on the grounds of the former Stadtpark Hospital in Chemnitz – as part of the official program of the European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025.
The historic site, featuring three buildings, a former shelter, and a green courtyard, has been impressively transformed. Abandoned corridors, crumbling walls, and traces of the past meet large-scale murals, illustrations, installations, and multimedia works. The contrast between architectural decay and contemporary art creates a unique atmosphere that has defined the festival from the very beginning.
A total of around 70 artists, duos, and collectives from 25 countries are presenting their work – including well-known names as well as many emerging talents. The artistic spectrum ranges from bold statements to playful aesthetics, from digital to analog, from political to poetic.
One striking aspect of the weekend was the high number of visitors: the combination of the anniversary, a strong line-up, and the Capital of Culture year attracted people from across Germany and beyond. The audience was diverse – families, art enthusiasts, and scene insiders – all contributing to the open and vibrant atmosphere.
The exhibition is accompanied by a diverse supporting program featuring music, film, talks, and guided tours, making the visit to the site a well-rounded experience.
The third and final festival weekend is just ahead – a great opportunity to experience a festival that brings together art, space, and community in a truly unique way.
ibug 2025 – Festival for Urban Art August 22–24 / August 29–31 / September 5–7, 2025 Scheffelstraße 110, 09120 Chemnitz
Opening Hours Exhibition:
Fridays from 3 PM to 8 PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 8 PM
Beer garden with stage program (outdoor area):
Fridays from 3 PM to 10 PM, Saturdays from 10 AM to 11 PM, Sundays from 10 AM to 8 PM
Beer garden (outdoor area, without stage program):
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