Art by the Tracks 2026: Creativity in the open air in Bad Vilbel
When art, music and nature come together, something truly special is created in Bad Vilbel once again: On the weekend of June 20 and 21, 2026, the popular open-air exhibition “Art by the Tracks” invites visitors for the fifth time to an inspiring weekend full of creativity.
What once began as a small initiative with around ten artists has long since become an established part of the regional cultural scene. Today, nearly 40 artists from Bad Vilbel, Hesse and far beyond present their work surrounded by greenery along the tracks on Berkersheimer Weg.
Initiator Attila Berkenyi founded the event together with René van den Bossche in 2022. His idea emerged at a time when meeting up had become rare: art was meant to bring people together again. That very idea still shapes “Art by the Tracks” today—open, warm and community-minded.
A growing network of creative diversity
The artists come from Bad Vilbel, Frankfurt, Offenbach, the Taunus, Friedberg, Karben, Bad Nauheim and many other places such as Gießen, Wetzlar, Aschaffenburg, or even Berlin and the Uckermark. This makes the event a vibrant meeting place for a wide range of styles and perspectives.
Particularly impressive is the intergenerational diversity: Bernd, the oldest participant at 80, exhibits his colourful works despite visual impairment—only for the second time ever.
Artist Karsten Kayser has been part of the project since the beginning and enthusiastically describes its development:
“We’ve managed to build a network of 70 artists from an idea and a small circle of ten exhibitors back then. Every year, I’m delighted to see how the project develops and how the wonderful site is filled with life and creativity.”
Art, music and connection in a special atmosphere
“Art by the Tracks” offers far more than a classic exhibition. On both days, guests can look forward to a varied supporting programme with live music and an open stage for musical performances. The relaxed open-air atmosphere makes the event a special meeting place for art lovers, families and day-trippers.
Also taking part is saxophonist Elke Lange-Helfrich, who is now part of the organising team:
“As a former Bad Vilbel resident, my heart is with the local art scene. In 2024, I was able to contribute to the musical programme of this extraordinary exhibition for the first time as a saxophonist with the band Satori, and I will be doing so again this year.”
Alongside painting, photography, sculptures and a wide variety of creative techniques, the focus is above all on personal exchange. Visitors have the opportunity to talk directly with the artists and experience art in a relaxed, nature-filled setting.
And of course, refreshments are provided—so a visit is well worth it in many ways.
Dates and information
ART by the TRACKS 2026
Saturday, June 20, 2026
12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Sunday, June 21, 2026
11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Use your sat nav to get to Berkersheimer Weg 89, 61118 Bad Vilbel, then continue along the paved path
– After about 500 metres, park in front of the horse paddock
– Then walk down the gravel path on the right to the exhibition
Bad Vilbel is looking forward to a creative summer weekend full of art, music and open-air encounters.
