WHAT'S NEW?! #61 - VILLACH IN APRIL 2026

The welcome2villach team collects the most important news from around Villach in a compact, monthly “News Story”, with links to more information. In April, Villach showcases just how vibrant, safe, and livable the city is, with new music events, fresh developments around the Westbahnhof district project, enhanced security measures, new green spaces, and a diverse cultural program.

• Villach becomes a “Rock City”: With “The City Rocks,” a new event series by the tourism board and the city, restaurants, and bars in Villach’s city center will transform into live music venues four times a year – featuring everything from DJ sets and unplugged sessions to classical concerts. The series kicks off with the “Spring Warm-up” on March 28th: 16 musicians will perform across 16 locations, delivering a total of 60 hours of live music and ringing in spring with energetic sounds. Admission to all events is free. Additional dates are planned for the start of summer (June 27th), the beginning of autumn (September 26th), and New Year’s Eve (December 31st). More information is available at the-city.rocks.
   
• Urban district project approved: A key milestone has been reached for the residential development at Villach’s Westbahnhof. The City of Villach and the Austrian Federal Railways have signed the urban development agreement. The previously unused 2.6-hectare ÖBB site will be transformed into a sustainable urban district from the end of 2027. Around 350–400 apartments are planned, including at least 100 subsidized housing units. The development will also feature eight kindergarten groups, park areas totaling around 4,000 m², and public infrastructure, such as underground parking and bicycle facilities. The project largely avoids new land consumption, combining modern living with green open spaces.
   
• Villach invests in greater safety: Four new permanently installed security cameras will be added to Villach’s city center. Previously, only temporary cameras were used during events and later removed. The new cameras, approved by the Ministry of the Interior, will be installed in high-traffic areas, from the main square and the Drau river promenade to the central train station. Their goal is to strengthen the public’s sense of safety and support police in solving crimes.
   
• A new public park in Villach’s city center: Villach’s network of 15 public parks and green spaces will soon be expanded by the Khevenhüller Park. A new fire brigade-themed playground opened in early March, and the green space is now being redesigned. On the 2,000 m² site, new trees will be planted, flower beds created, fresh grass sown, and new seating installed. A special highlight: the 120-year-old linden tree will officially be designated a natural monument. The official opening is planned for later this spring.

• A strong network: Villach’s “Netzwerk Prävention” brings together over 50 organizations from education, counseling, and social services to support young people, families, and educators in navigating the challenges of everyday (digital) life. It promotes personal development among children and adolescents and guides them through key stages of growth. On April 23rd, a themed day titled “TikTok teppat?” will take place at Mittelschule Lind, focusing on the opportunities and risks of social media. Workshops, information stands, and a public evening event will offer guidance and make support services easily accessible.
   
• Villach Easter market open until Holy Saturday: The Easter market in Villach’s city center invites visitors to stroll and enjoy its offerings until April 4th. From handicrafts and culinary specialties to a wide range of gift ideas, there’s something for the whole family. Opening hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Holy Saturday, the traditional food blessing at the weekly market begins at 10 a.m., followed by the popular Easter egg tapping competition. On this day, the market closes early at 2 p.m.
   
• Events: On April 8th, QuinTTTonic will perform at the Congress Center Villach, combining brass sounds, vocals, and poetry from classical to Austropop for an unforgettable concert evening. On April 14th, “Concert in Crime: John” blends music and thriller elements into a suspense-filled experience. And on April 22nd, the Slovenian Philharmonic, together with flutist Michael Martin Kofler, celebrates with a festive birthday concert featuring works by Khachaturian and Bruckner. Visual arts also take center stage in April: on April 9th, Dinzelschloss hosts “JEDERMANN. jedeFRAU” by Roswitha Ruprecht and Josef Kuhs, an exhibition exploring humanity and life. Meanwhile, on April 28th, Galerie Freihausgasse will ceremonially open Karl Brandstätter’s retrospective in honor of his 80th birthday.