Forward Festival Berlin 2026

Following its successful premiere in Frankfurt as part of World Design Capital 2026, Forward Festival continues its 2026 season in Berlin. On August 27–28, 2026, the festival returns to Haus der Kulturen der Welt, bringing together creatives for two days of inspiring talks, workshops, networking opportunities, and immersive experiences.

Across three stages, more than 50 international speakers from design, typography, illustration, motion, branding, and beyond will explore bold ideas, emerging trends, and the future of creativity.

This year's Berlin edition features an international lineup of leading creative voices. Stefan Sagmeister is one of the most influential designers of our time, connecting design with life’s bigger questions. Brooklyn-based designers Anton & Irene are known for their bold, award-winning work for clients including Spotify, IKEA, and The Met. Montreal-based artist and designer Gab Bois creates distinctive surreal work blending playful imagination with absurd visuals. Illustrator Mr. Bingo is known for his witty Hate Mail project and his transition from client work to independent art. Global creative studio FutureDeluxecombines design and technology to create innovative visual worlds, while Berlin-based type design team Dinamo redefines contemporary typography through typefaces, tools, research, and consultancy.

Find out more about the full program here

Since its founding in 2015, Forward Festival has grown into one of the leading platforms for the international creative community. Across 33 festivals in four countries, it has welcomed more than 50,000 visitors from 80 nations, connecting designers, artists, marketers, entrepreneurs, and creative thinkers through carefully curated talks, workshops, side events, and immersive experiences.

More than a conference, Forward Festival is a place where ideas meet action, empowering attendees with inspiration, practical knowledge, and new connections to turn creative ideas into reality.

When?
August 27–28, 2026

Where?
Haus der Kulturen der Welt, Berlin, Germany

Slanted will also be part of Forward Festival Berlin with our own booth, and we’re looking forward to meeting you there! Come by, say hello, and explore our latest publications, design discoveries, and creative inspirations—we can’t wait to see you and share our passion for design with you.

Tickets and further information are available via the official website.