The newest, hottest and trendiest names in music will be taking over Cologne for the annual Cologne Music Week (CMW) this October 23-26.

Cologne Music Week (CMW)

CMW occupies an unusual place in the music festival world. Taking place in October, instead of the height of summer already marks it out, but it's really unique selling point is that it operates for both the listeners and the makers of music.

As well as dozens of amazing concerts by up-and-coming bands, the festival also features the NRW Music Conference, so that those who work in, or are trying to break into, the music industry can attend talks, presentations and networking events.

Bands playing at CMW 2024

There are dozens of amazing new bands playing this year's CMW, with genres from pop to indie to electro to hip-hop. Here's just a few of those taking part:

• MRD
• Boondawg
• Paula Engels
• SoFTT
• skuth
• fyne
• Carlo5
• GbR
• benzii
• hyperlove
• Mana

Where CMW takes place

The lively Belgian Quarter of Cologne is the centre of CMW. The venues that are hosting gigs this year are Jaki, taking a step away from it's usual jazz fair, Stadtgarten-Saal, the stalwart of Cologne's cultural scene, and Vault, the internationally famous DJ club.

NRW Music Conference

Between all the concerts, you can continue your pop culture education at the associated NRW Music Conference. Whether you work in front of, on or behind the stage or are simply interested you are welcome to the NRW Music Conference. Interesting talks and innovative workshops on music and pop culture in North Rhine-Westphalia await you. Young talent in the industry and newcomer musicians can build a network and learn from the musicians who perform at the festival at workshops.

Attending CMW

Cologne Music Week is dedicated to keeping prices as low as possible to ensure as many people as possible have access to the music and the conference. Weekend tickets start from just 35 euros, with day tickets from 15 euros. Buy your tickets from the Cologne Music Week website.

You need to swap your ticket confirmation for a wristband at the Stadtgarten before you go to your concerts. Don't forget or you won't get in!

The venues are all just a few minutes walk from each other and from Cologne West train station, so arriving by public transport is recommended.