Next year it will be time for Hanover to open its doors for the 102nd Grand Chapitre of Germany! From September 3rd to 6th, 2026, the Bailliage of Lower Saxony invites you to the vibrant state capital - with a programme that combines culture, history, hospitality, and gastronomy at the highest level.

Thursday, September 3rd - Soirée de bienvenue
The opening of the 102nd Grand Chapitre of Germany will be all about arrival and hospitality. On the first evening, we cordially invite you to a Lower Saxony Evening. In a relaxed atmosphere with regional specialties, fine wines, and atmospheric music, we will get to know each other and prepare ourselves together for the festive days ahead. An evening filled with warmth, hospitality, and culinary delights - just as one would expect in Lower Saxony.

Friday, September 4th - Excursions and culinary discoveries
Friday is dedicated to art, culture, and exploration. Our guests can look forward to a varied excursion programme:
- the impressive art collection at Derneburg Castle,
- an exclusive guided tour of the cathedral and museum in Hildesheim with the director himself,
- a historical walk through the world-famous Herrenhausen Gardens,
- and many more fascinating experiences in and around Hanover.

In the evening, numerous Professional member establishments of the Bailliage of Lower Saxony will open their doors. In small, companiable groups, we will enjoy unforgettable culinary evenings among friends - diverse, warm-hearted, and full of pleasure.

Saturday, September 5th - Induction Ceremony and Gala Dinner
Saturday begins with a highlight of Chaîne tradition: the solemn Induction Ceremony at a special location in Hanover. In the evening, an unforgettable experience awaits us: in the historic banquet hall of the Herrenhausen Gallery Building - one of the most beautiful halls in Europe - we will celebrate the Grand Gala Dinner. A Michelin-starred chef will indulge us with a sophisticated menu, and we will be honoured to welcome His Royal Highness the Prince of Hanover as our distinguished guest. The crowning finale of the evening: the International Fireworks Festival in the Herrenhausen Gardens - and we will enjoy this spectacle from premium box seats.

Sunday, September 6th - Farewell and departure
After eventful days, Sunday means saying “au revoir.” We will look back on a Grand Chapitre full of impressions, encounters, and culinary highlights.

The Bailliage of Lower Saxony is very much looking forward to welcoming you to Hanover in 2026. This 102nd Grand Chapitre of Germany is being held under the motto: “A guest of the Welfs*” - and we invite you to experience these unforgettable days together with us.

Looking forward to seeing you!

Lutz Müller
Vice-Chargé de Presse, Bailliage of Lower Saxony

* Ed. The House of Welf is a European dynasty that has included many German and British monarchs from the 11th to the 20th centuries and Emperor Ivan VI of Russia in the 18th century. The dynasty continues to exist, albeit the House of Hanover is now the only surviving branch of the House of Welf, The House’s head is Ernst August von Hannover, the present husband of Princess Caroline of Monaco.