*Guide continuously updated as new events and parties are announced*
The countdown is officially on for DMEXCO 2026, one of Europe’s biggest meeting points for digital marketing, media, and technology. Taking place on September 23 and 24 in Cologne, the event will once again bring together the people, companies, and ideas shaping what’s next across the digital industry.
Two days of exhibitions, keynotes, panels, workshops, meetings, and plenty of conversations in between make DMEXCO one of the busiest dates on the industry calendar.
But DMEXCO doesn’t end when the exhibition halls close. ✨ Across Cologne, the week continues with networking drinks, dinners, meetups, invite-only gatherings, and some of the most anticipated parties of the event.
That’s why we’ve put together our DMEXCO 2026 Parties & Events Guide, a curated roundup of the best side events happening across the city. We’ll keep updating it as new events are announced, so make sure to check back regularly.
Hosting an event during DMEXCO 2026? We’d love to feature it. Just send us the details!
A full afternoon of conversations, ideas, and networking before DMEXCO officially kicks off. Cologne Collective Day brings together professionals from e-commerce, marketing, logistics, supply chain, retail, and entrepreneurship for an event built around meaningful exchange and relevant industry topics.
The program combines keynotes and a panel discussion before moving into an aftershow from 18:30, with a DJ, drinks, food, networking, and, of course, a cold Kölsch. 🍻

Start DMEXCO week with drinks, good conversations, and some familiar industry faces. Hosted by Limelight and GeoEdge, this pre-DMEXCO gathering brings the community together for a relaxed evening before two packed days at the conference.
Whether it’s catching up with industry peers or making new connections, expect an easygoing atmosphere at Craftbeer Corner in the heart of Cologne. Spaces are limited, and all registrations are subject to approval 🍻

Kick off DMEXCO before the conference even begins. Hosted by the Marketing + Media Alliance, PREMEXCO CONNECT brings together professionals from across the marketing ecosystem for an evening dedicated to networking, new connections, and conversations ahead of two busy days at DMEXCO.
Taking place at Zum scheuen Reh in Cologne, the event offers a relaxed setting to meet industry peers and get the DMEXCO week started over drinks. Attendance is by invitation only, and all registrations are subject to approval.

Networking, but make it a little less corporate. quiteCONNECTED #3 brings the community together during DMEXCO for an afternoon designed around meeting new people, exchanging ideas, and having real conversations beyond the usual trade show rush.
Taking place right at Messeplatz, it’s an easy side event to add to the first day of DMEXCO for anyone looking to step away from the booths and connect in a more relaxed setting.

Step away from the DMEXCO crowds and head to the rooftop for an evening focused on networking, customer engagement, and a few drinks above Cologne. Under the theme Scaling Engagement, valantic and SAP team up with Adler Mannheim to explore how data and AI can help brands build stronger customer and fan loyalty.
Alongside the industry conversation, the evening offers a relaxed setting to connect with marketing decision-makers away from the exhibition halls. A shuttle service from Koelnmesse Entrance North will also be available. ✨
Take DMEXCO networking to the Rhine. THE UPPER DECK brings marketing leaders, C-level executives, and decision-makers together for an exclusive boat party combining industry connections with drinks and late-night celebrations on the water.
A different way to wrap up the first day of DMEXCO, trading the exhibition halls for river views, music, and a party atmosphere in the heart of Cologne. 🛥️✨

One of the most legendary nights of DMEXCO is back. OMClub returns to Cologne for its 2026 edition, bringing together 2,500 people from across the digital industry for a huge aftershow party on the first night of the conference.
Running since 2008, OMClub is anything but a traditional networking event. Expect unlimited drinks, music, unexpected experiences, plenty of surprises, and a night built around its 2026 motto: “Tropic like it’s hot.” 🌴🔥
Tickets are not available for public sale. Access is through OMClub hosts and sponsor giveaways, with registration available for updates on upcoming ticket opportunities.

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