Tschio and the World Equestrian Games in Aachen

Allianz Park, just outside the city center is the venue for the annual CHIO and, once again this year, the World Equestrian Games. Both events are highly,, exciting, and international. A blend of equestrian deluxe at the highest level, top-class, a feast for the senses, of enjoyment, of coming together, an event centered around lifestyle such as strolling and shopping, fine dining, and good drinks. These are days for an international audience, young and old, families, business events, and so on. For us Aachen locals, these are special days when time simply stands still. In a positive way. Our“Tschio,”as we say. Since the CHIO 2026 is smaller and shorter, it was promptly and officially renamed“Tschio 2026.”What a tribute to Aachen, home, and tradition. 

From May 22 to 24, 2026 the best riders from theworld to compete in top-tier events at the world’s largest equestrian tournament, our country’s biggest sporting event, . Competitions take place over three days, with 170 athleticphorses will participate. For the first time, “Pferd & Sinfonie,” the opening show featuring the Aachen Theater Symphony Orchestra, will take place in the main stadium. This year’s theme “James Bond” promises excitement, style, and fascination, with some of the world’s best riders and a former Bond girl set to be part of this premier symphonic event. We’ll be able to experience this highlight not only in the stadium but also on TV. Before, between, and during the competitions, you can explore a sort of small town—actually called a “village” —featuring 120 exhibitors . Fashion, lifestyle, and equestrian goods are sold here in a beautiful setting. A beer garden and a food court invite you to enjoyenjoy, linger, and celebrate. . Various parties take place in the evenings. 

More athletic Highlight of the Tschio is (once again this year) the Aachen Grand Prix, the Rolex Grand Prix, on Sunday, which is sure to be a thrilling event in front of 40,000 spectators in the main stadium. 

When the sporting climax turns into an emotional climax, I know it’s the final, it’s time to say“goodbye,” to savor the final moments.. The scent, the sounds, the togetherness, the “us.” The Tschio.  
To “Must i leave the town,” the audience waves goodbye with white handkerchiefs, Au revoir, Bye, Adios … and carry the riders from all nations through the stadium one last time. Pure goosebumps.

What a luxury not having to wait 12 months for the next spine-tingling moments. Rather, it’s the knowledge that in just a few weeks we’ll get to experience more one-of-a-kind, unique, and unprecedented moments and highlights of equestrian sport! And I can already feel it. These will be days when we wish for eternity! 

From August 11–23, 2026, the World Equestrian Games will take place at the Soers in Allianz Park, featuring over 650 athletes from 35 countries and 800 horses. Unbelievable! Medals will be awarded in the six disciplines of show jumping, dressage, eventing, para-dressage, driving, and vaulting. I could juggle numbers endlessly, but I know full well that every single moment can have a powerful impact if we immerse ourselves in the world of elite sports, passion, and emotion—each in their own way. As an absolute equestrian connoisseur , as a horse lover, as an expert, as an enthusiast, as a curious person, as a fan, as an athlete, as a newcomer, as an old hand. What will count is the “WE” in Aachen, which will be carried out into the big, wide world. 

Anyone who isn’t already caught up in the excitement will be captivated by the opening ceremony on August 11 at the very latest—whether watching live at the Soers or via broadcasts on giant screens in downtown Aachen. In a unique production, the world will be celebrated in Aachen, merging with the audience to form a single entity. The—well-known— parade of nations featuring hundreds of riders, as well as the royal carriage parades, will fascinate us all fascinate and let us feel the magic of the World Equestrian Games.

The 2026 World Equestrian Games in Aachen will feature a spectacular supporting program that will draw Aachen residents, numerous visitors, and perhaps even participants in the World Championships to our beautiful downtown. Those interested can get a taste of the tournament and the individual disciplines at the public viewing , listen live in the city center to the award ceremonies and talks with the winners, and follow talks with interesting personalities. And simply immerse yourself in the magic of the 2026 World Equestrian Games in Aachen. When it comes to culture, Aachen’s city center will become a grand summer stage: With three exhibitions at the Ludwig Forum, the Suermondt-Ludwig Museum, and the Centre Charlemagne centered on happiness of this world and the 100th anniversary of the CHIO, Aachen offers a wonderful variety. Special guidedtours from the Aachen Tourist Service take interested visitors by the hand, culinary highlights will be available at the food market at Münsterplatz and Katschhof and – and, best of all – a colorful series of concerts with free admission is being offered for fantastic atmosphere! Because Alvaro Soler and Knallblech are—along with other artists—definitely a highlight!

As I write these lines, I realize all the more realize just what a luxury, what a brilliant move Tschio 2026 and the 2026 World Equestrian Games in Aachen are for our city. Not just in a figurative sense. Because at Katschhof , a chess game with horse figures —as tall as children—will invite people to play and linger! I I’ll , one-of-a-kind, a first, unique. Our Aachen.