There are certain things, events, and moments that can be described in words, that can be wonderfully captured with the most beautiful adjectives both a factual and emotional levels, and yet are best experienced firsthand. Then, and only then, can you really feel the vibe, and it lingers,for many people, it remains with them forever. That’s how it is for me. Even as a small child, I used to go to the CHIO year . In a little summer dress and hat—yes, that was a must on Sundays—or in rubber boots. Aachen rain, after all. I collected autographs and cheered from the stands. And all that without ever having been a horse-loving girl. My longing for the CHIO and the World Equestrian Games has run through my life. The best part is: Every year feels unique, one-of-a-kind, like the first time . 

And now I can already feel that special sense of anticipation again. It’s not just me. Aachen is the countdown. Aachen is living and breathing the passion and excitement for equestrian sports. The shop windows are aglow with the most beautiful decorations, such as horse-shaped gingerbread cookies and colorful pennants, saddles and jumps. Events are being promoted, and the buses speak volumes with their beautiful advertisements. Hotels and restaurants are preparing for guests from all over . 

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.

Here’s to many heartwarming, spine-tingling moments and a peaceful, friendly sporting spirit!