Every two years, the Central Committee of German Catholics (ZdK) organizes a Katholikentag. The venue is always a different city in a different diocese. In 2026, the 104th Deutsche Katholikentag is invited by the diocese of Würzburg.  

The ZdK and the host diocese jointly founded a sponsoring association. On behalf of the organizers, this association provides the economic, legal and organizational means and conditions for the planning, implementation and running of the Katholikentag on site.  

The highest decision-making committee of the Katholikentag in matters of content and program is the Katholikentags Leitung (Board). It is made up of representatives of the ZdK, the host diocese and the supporting association. The chair is held by the ZdK President, Dr Irme Stetter-Karp. 

Deciding on the host city for a Katholikentag is a lengthy process. Ultimately, after preliminary discussions, the invitation of a host diocese is accepted by the plenary assembly of the Central Committee of German Catholics (ZdK) as the sponsor of the Katholikentag. This is preceded by discussions with the host city and the respective federal state.   

For 20236, the ZdK General Assembly has accepted the invitation of the Diocese of Würzburg. The 104th Deutsche Katholikentag will take place in Würzburg from 13 May to 17, 2026.  

As the largest Catholic lay event in Germany, the Katholikentag wants to be open to everyone. Whether with or without disabilities –everyone should be able to participate without restriction. Katholikentag wants to be a sign of lived inclusion, to break down barriers and to give all people the opportunity to celebrate, pray and discuss together during the five days. You can find more information here and please approach us with any questions! 

German Catholic Conventions are major events that require long preparation and mobilise tens of thousands of people. This is precisely why it is so important that the Katholikentag consciously pays attention to sustainability: during the major event in May and already in the months of preparation. 

The Katholikentag is aware of its mission as a major Christian event. It wants to be a pioneer for sustainable major events. In 2008, the Katholikentag became climate-neutral for the first time. In doing so, it set standards for itself and other major events. Sustainability and climate protection require continuity. Therefore, the 104th Katholikentag in Würzburg will also be climate-friendly.

The budget of Katholikentag contains three sources: own funds, church funds and public funds. Own funds include, e.g., proceeds from the sale of tickets, souvenirs and the collection, but also stand fees, donations and project grants. Church subsidies come from the host diocese and the Association of German Dioceses. Public funds are provided by the federal government, the state and the city.

Up-to-date information is available here on katholikentag.de and via the Katholikentag social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.  

If you don't want to miss anything, subscribe to the electronic germen newsletter of the Katholikentag at katholikentag.de/newsletter. 

The motto for the 104th Deutsche Katholikentag has been decided: "Have courage, stand up!"