Event Overview
A major winter chapter of Germany’s leading photography and contemporary art triennial, bringing global artists, curators, and new voices together across Hamburg’s cultural institutions.
The Winter Exhibitions of the Hamburg Triennial 2026 mark the first major preview cycle ahead of the full festival. Museums, galleries, independent spaces, and research centers open their doors with a series of curated shows focused on photography, media art, visual narratives, and new technological perspectives. This January program offers a deep dive into what the upcoming triennial will explore throughout the year.
1 January 2026 - 31 January 2026
Events take place across Hamburg’s major art venues: • Deichtorhallen Hamburg (House of Photography) • Kunsthalle Hamburg • Kampnagel • Sammlung Falckenberg • Multiple independent spaces
Mission:
The mission of the Hamburg Triennial’s winter program is to promote critical thinking about contemporary photography, expand the dialogue between artists and audiences, and support innovation within visual culture. The event aims to strengthen Hamburg’s role as a leading European center for image-based art while fostering cooperation between institutions, educators, and experimental media laboratories.
Organizer:
The festival is organized by Deichtorhallen Hamburg – House of Photography, in partnership with Hamburg’s public museums, independent galleries, and international cultural foundations.
• Access early previews before the main Triennial opens • Explore new photographic practices and global artistic voices • See site-specific installations and research-driven exhibitions • Meet curators during special talks and guided discussions • Discover Hamburg’s winter cultural landscape with fewer crowds • Ideal for collectors, critics, students, journalists, and lovers of contemporary art
From Hamburg Airport:
S-Bahn S1 → Hauptbahnhof → Deichtorhallen (approx. 25 minutes)
Recommended public transport:
• U1, U3 — for central museums
• Bus routes connecting HafenCity, St. Georg, and Altona
• S-Bahn for fast access between districts
Most venues are within walking distance of the central station and HafenCity district.
Tickets are limited and sell out fast.
Get instant access to the official Hamburg Triennial – Winter Exhibitions 2026 registration page and be the first to know about exclusive events, VIP passes, and travel perks.
Early access. Limited availability. Global art at your fingertips.
The Hamburg Triennial was founded with the vision of redefining photography as an essential language of contemporary culture. Over the decades, it has become known for its bold curatorial statements, collaborations with international institutions, and commitment to presenting both legendary image-makers and emerging experimental voices. The Winter Exhibitions became an official precursor in the early 2020s, offering a softer, research-based introduction to the themes that the full Triennial explores later in the year.
• Start at Deichtorhallen to understand the curatorial context
• Plan two days to comfortably see all winter exhibitions
• Visit Kampnagel for more experimental installations
• Many smaller galleries host one-night events; check schedules
• Dress warm — venues are spread across the city
• Book guided tours early; spots fill quickly
• Combine your visit with Hamburg’s winter cultural attractions such as the Elbphilharmonie or HafenCity museums
Don’t miss your chance to attend one of the world’s leading art fairs. Get direct access to the official ticketing page, exclusive updates, and important visitor information.
Early access. Limited availability. Global art at your fingertips.