Cologne is one of Europe’s busiest trade fair cities. Koelnmesse, its exhibition centre, hosts shows for furniture, food, dental care, gaming and much more, and sometimes more than one runs at the same time.
If you plan to exhibit or visit, it helps to know what is coming next. Here are six of the biggest upcoming trade shows in Cologne, from ORGATEC in October 2026 to gamescom in August 2027. We work as an exhibition stand builder in Cologne, so we have added a short note on what each show means for your stand.
| Show | Dates | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| ORGATEC 2026 | 27–30 October 2026 | Workspaces and contract solutions |
| imm cologne 2027 | 19–22 January 2027 | Furniture and interior design |
| ISM Cologne 2027 | 31 January–3 February 2027 | Sweets and snacks |
| IDS 2027 | 16–20 March 2027 | Dental industry |
| interzum 2027 | 11–14 May 2027 | Furniture production and interior suppliers |
| gamescom 2027 | 23–29 August 2027 | Computer and video games |
1. ORGATEC 2026: Workspaces and Contract Solutions
Event Date: 27–30 October 2026
ORGATEC is the leading international trade fair for the modern working world. It takes place every two years and looks at how offices and workspaces are changing.
Expect office furniture, lighting, flooring, acoustics and workplace technology. Visitors include architects, interior designers, facility managers and buyers. It is the first show on this list, so if you plan to visit, there is still time to organise your trip.
Stand tip: workspace brands often show products in a real setting. A stand that feels like a small office or lounge usually works better than a plain display wall. You can read more on our ORGATEC 2026 page.
2. IMM cologne 2027: The Interior Business Event
Event Date: 19–22 January 2027
imm cologne opens the Cologne year for the furniture and interior design industry. Brands show furniture, living concepts and new collections to retailers, designers and buyers from around the world.
Stand tip: at an interiors show, finishes and colours matter. Good lighting and well-chosen materials let buyers see your products as they will look at home. A custom exhibition stand lets you build a room-like setting around your range.
3. ISM Cologne 2027: Sweets and Snacks
Event Date: 31 January–3 February 2027
ISM Cologne is the world’s largest trade fair for sweets and snacks. Chocolate, gummies, biscuits, crisps and packaging ideas from every corner of the world fill the halls. Retailers, distributors and manufacturers come to taste, compare and place orders.
Stand tip: food brands need attractive product displays, a sample or tasting point and storage out of sight. Plan these early so the stand stays tidy on day three. See how we support exhibitors on our ISM Cologne page.
4. IDS 2027: The International Dental Show
Event Date: 16–20 March 2027
IDS is the leading trade fair for the dental industry and is held every two years in Cologne. Manufacturers, dealers, dentists and dental technicians gather to see new equipment, materials and digital solutions.
Stand tip: dental exhibitors often need demonstration areas, space for larger equipment and a quiet corner for consultations. Think about floor loading, power and visitor flow before you finalise the layout. Our IDS page has more information.
5. interzum 2027: Furniture Production and Interior Design
Event Date: 11–14 May 2027
interzum is the world’s leading trade fair for furniture production and interior design. It is held every two years and focuses on suppliers: materials, components and technologies for furniture makers. The 2027 theme is “Beyond Boundaries: Elevating Strategic Resilience”.
Stand tip: buyers want to touch and compare materials, so plan sample walls and display units that make this easy. Add a quiet meeting area, because most business here is done in conversation. Our interzum Cologne page explains how we help.
6. Gamescom 2027: Computer and Video Games
Event Date: 23–29 August 2027
gamescom is the world’s largest event for computer and video games. Fans, developers, publishers, press and business partners all come to Cologne. Not every day of the event week is open to the public, so check the schedule if you plan to visit.
Stand tip: crowds are big at gamescom, so queue flow and demo stations need careful planning. If you also want private meetings with partners, a double-decker exhibition stand can add a quieter upper level.
Why Cologne Works for Exhibitors
Cologne combines large, modern halls with good rail and air links, which makes it easy for visitors and exhibitors to travel from abroad. The shows draw buyers, suppliers and partners from many countries, so one stand can open many conversations.
It also helps to work with a team that knows the venue. Our article on the benefits of a local exhibition stand builder in Cologne explains why.
Conclusion
Cologne’s trade show calendar gives brands in many industries a chance to meet buyers, test ideas and build lasting contacts. Whether you aim for ORGATEC this month or gamescom next summer, a clear plan and the right stand make the difference.
Ready to plan your stand for a show in Cologne? Contact Aars Worldwide with your show, stand size and goals, and we will come back with a concept and a quotation.
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