The 60th anniversary edition of ITB Berlin, taking place from March 3–5, 2026, will open on March 2 with a gala celebrating this year’s Host Country, Angola. Official speeches, cultural performances, and visual presentations will showcase Angola’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Under the theme “The Rhythm of Life,” Angola will set the tone for the anniversary edition with a colorful program of dances, music, and cultural displays. Around 700–800 guests, including political leaders, tourism professionals, media representatives, and international institutions, will embark on an artistic journey through Angola’s traditions and contemporary culture.
High-profile attendees are expected, including Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin; Dr. Christopher Ploß, Federal Government Coordinator for Maritime Economy and Tourism; Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC); and Shaikha Nasser Alnuwais, Secretary-General of UN Tourism. Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, will represent ITB Berlin. The gala will be hosted by H.E. Márcio Daniel, Minister of Tourism of Angola, and H.E. José de Lima Massano, Minister of State of Angola.
“We are thrilled to be the Official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2026,” said H.E. Márcio Daniel. “This platform allows us to showcase Angola’s cultural diversity, natural beauty, and uniqueness. With our new brand identity, ‘Visit Angola – The Rhythm of Life,’ we invite the international travel industry to experience the country with all their senses.”
Julia Kleber, CEO of the KLEBER GROUP and official representative of the Angola Tourism Board, added: “Angola combines spectacular coastlines, deserts, waterfalls, and ancient rock landscapes. ‘The Rhythm of Life’ represents the country’s energy, diversity, and openness. We are proud to present Angola as an authentic new destination on the global tourism stage.”
A Cultural Journey from Tradition to Modernity
The gala program, Travessia – From Traditional to Modern, highlights Angola’s musical and cultural evolution. The performance opens with the dikanza, played by Dr. Raul Tolingas, a traditional music icon, and continues with congas, guitars, and percussion. Younger musicians symbolize dialogue between generations, while guitar solos by Dr. Teddy Nsingui and piano and violin arrangements transition the music to modern interpretations. Traditional rhythms like semba, rebita, and rumba are reimagined for a contemporary audience.
Choreography mirrors this journey, blending folk traditions with modern movement. Large-scale LED installations bring Angola’s landscapes to life, from Kalandula Falls and the Namib Desert to the Atlantic coast, creating a visual and artistic narrative of the country’s heritage and dynamism.
The evening’s culinary experience reflects Angola’s identity. Michelin-starred chef Helt Araújo reinterprets traditional ingredients into contemporary dishes, translating the country’s flavors, colors, and textures into a modern menu.
Discover Angola at ITB Berlin
Throughout the trade show, Angola will highlight its natural beauty, cultural richness, and hospitality, promoting itself as an adventurous and authentic destination. The Host Country Report and additional resources, including the Host Country Flyer, ITB News & Insights, and ITB Navigator, provide detailed insights into Angola’s tourism offerings.
At ITB Berlin, Angola is in Hall 21-112
