Ukraine Becomes the First Guest Country of Honour at Reeperbahn Festival 2026
For the first time, we are introducing the Guest Country of Honour distinction. This recognition is awarded to countries that stand out for their sustained support of emerging talent, innovative spirit, and the international development of their music scenes. Ukraine, represented by Music Export Ukraine, is the first country to receive this special honour.
This decision reflects our deep appreciation for the work of Music Export Ukraine. Over the past years, under exceptionally challenging circumstances, the organisation has played a pivotal role in increasing the international visibility of Ukrainian artists, establishing sustainable support structures, and connecting the country’s music ecosystem with the global music industry.
Music Export Ukraine partnered with the Ukrainian Institute to represent Ukrainian delegations and artists, with the support of House of Europe / Goethe Institut and CEE Party in the chosen years.
As the Guest Country of Honour, Ukraine will present one of its most diverse delegations to date – both on our stages and within the conference programme.
Featured artists include GANNA, who combines Ukrainian folk traditions with modern live electronics and has already captivated audiences across Europe, Canada, and Australia. Also joining the showcase programme is Maryna Krut, who reinterprets the traditional bandura in a fascinating way, blending its sound with elements of dream pop and cinematic soundscapes. Completing the line-up is Kazhanna, one of the most exciting new voices in Ukrainian pop music. The successful singer and TikTok artist embodies authenticity, creativity, and the female empowerment of a new generation.
In addition to the artists, we are pleased to welcome numerous representatives of Ukraine’s music ecosystem to the festival.
Among them is Rumezhak Agency, founded by music manager and producer Sviatoslav Rumezhak. The agency represents some of the most influential acts in Ukraine’s indie and alternative scene, including Palindrom, SadSvit, and Sasha Chemerov. Chemerov will also join the Reeperbahn Festival Conference as a speaker.
We are also delighted to welcome back the renowned independent label pomitni to Hamburg. After being part of the delegation in 2025, the label will see one of its artists, Kazhanna, perform in the official showcase programme for the first time in 2026. This is a wonderful example of how international connections and collaborations initiated at Reeperbahn Festival can continue to grow over the long term.
The Guest Country of Honour programme will not only be visible on stage but will also contribute key perspectives to our conference programme. One highlight is the session “Music Beyond the Stage: When Artists Take on New Roles”, taking place on 18 September. Ukrainian cultural professionals will share their extraordinary personal journeys and discuss how their roles have evolved during times of societal crisis—from music and journalism to music therapy, cultural advocacy, and even military service. The discussion will explore how culture can strengthen societal resilience and promote democratic values.
Those wishing to meet the delegation in person can do so at the Ukrainian Reception on Friday, 18 September 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Alte Liebe. The event offers festival guests and industry professionals an open setting for dialogue, networking, and new collaborations with the Ukrainian music scene.
By naming Ukraine as the first Guest Country of Honour, we aim not only to spotlight an exceptionally creative and resilient music scene, but also to demonstrate the unifying power of culture and international collaboration—especially in challenging times.