Everyone dances along! In pairs, in circles, in chains, in groups of multiple people or alone. Live music, fun, joy of movement, and sociability in a special atmosphere. This doesn’t sound like a dusty and rigid dance event – and it isn’t. It is BAL FOLK!

BAL FOLK is one of the forms of participatory dance evenings in Germany that are becoming increasingly popular. At BAL FOLK, the dances of the French regions are usually danced to live music, with the composition of the dance mix depending on what the band plays. It’s not about perfection, but about the joy of dancing – the dance of the day is practiced by everyone at the beginning. Dancing provides a good balance to everyday school, study, or work life. 

The dances are suitable for everyone, whether with or without dance experience and completely free of competition or performance pressure, as we know it from sports, for example. During the balls, dance partners are playfully exchanged so that no one needs a fixed dance partner. People of different ages, social, and geographical-cultural backgrounds come together casually and dance – completely without a dress code. Everyone is invited to join in!

Current live band will follow here soon …

Instruction: There will be an instruction for some dances between 4 and 5 PM. No prior knowledge is required. 

Bring-along buffet – everyone is cordially invited to bring something simple finger food. Drinks will be sold by the team of Luther Church, as at any event. 

A project by Südstadtleben e. V. in collaboration with BalFolk Köln

Important information for people with disabilities
The main entrance has a step. On the opposite side of the main entrance, there is a barrier-free back entrance. Please use the route via the parking lot for this. The church is then completely accessible. Unfortunately, a wheelchair-accessible toilet is not available. We are happy to reserve a corresponding place for you and your companion in the church. Please inform us in advance about your visit. Thank you.

The Brazilian Night 

The artists Vando Oliveira and Mirla Riomar, already known as Local Ambassadors, present a versatile program with music from various regions of Brazil – from Samba to Bossa Nova to traditional rhythms.

Look forward to a musical journey that celebrates the cultural wealth of Brazil in all its facets. Additionally, more special guests are expected (more info to follow). An evening full of music, emotions, and Brazilian joy of life awaits guests in the unique atmosphere of the Luther Church.

The release concert of Mirrors & Windows by MELANE & FRIENDS

Look forward to a very special evening: Local Ambassadrice invites you to the exclusive release concert of “Mirrors & Windows” in the Lutherkirche Cologne Südstadt.

Experience emerging artists from Cologne presenting fascinating sounds with Afro-Rumba, Reggae, New Soul, and Global Pop.

The central theme of the evening, “Free Congo,” will shape the event and set a strong sign for diversity and support for the Congo. Join us as we celebrate this unique musical and cultural journey together!

The final line-up will be published later on this homepage!

The musician Elektro Hafiz is a musician, born and raised in Istanbul, who has recently moved to Cologne. His sound is reminiscent of hypnotic wedding music known from border villages in southeastern Turkey. When the energetic atmosphere of this music is combined with Hafız's overdrive-fuzz tones, a unique style emerges that can be interpreted as both psychedelic and punk. 

He loves to play with contrasts and create new compositions from them. This open and experimental approach has remained his trademark, as well as his provocative style, which is complemented by a touch of humor. His diverse compositions are strongly influenced by his roots in Istanbul. This is especially evident in his preferred instruments, the electric Saz and the electric guitar, which are featured in most of his pieces.

The musician Elektro Hafız is a musician who was born and raised in Istanbul and has recently moved to Cologne. His sound recalls the hypnotic wedding music known from border villages in southeastern Turkey. When this music's energetic atmosphere combines with Hafız's overdrive-fuzz tones, a unique style emerges that could be interpreted as both psychedelic and punk. He enjoys playing with contrasts and creating new compositions from them. This open and experimental approach has become his signature, along with his provocative style, complemented by a touch of humor. His varied compositions are strongly influenced by his roots in Istanbul. This is particularly evident in the instruments he prefers, the electric Saz and the electric guitar, which are used in most of his works.