- Albania takes center stage as the guest country at ITB Berlin 2025.
- The grand opening features vibrant performances, traditional music, and exquisite food.
- Prime Minister Edi Rama will represent Albania at the event.
- Political and tourism leaders join the opening ceremony on March 3, 2025.
- A modern cultural dance and live music showcase Albania’s unique heritage.
- A gala dinner follows, offering authentic culinary delights.
The ITB Berlin 2025 is set to kick off in style, with Albania taking the spotlight as the honoured guest country. The grand opening unfolds on March 3, 2025, at Berlin’s CityCube, welcoming around 2,500 guests, including top political figures and key players in the travel industry. Albania’s Prime Minister, Edi Rama, will lead the representation of a country long celebrated for its diverse culture and historical depth.
Under the theme “All Senses,” the event promises audiences a vibrant journey into Albania’s landscapes, traditions, and cultural legacy. Political leaders like Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner and Dieter Janecek, the German government’s coordinator for maritime and tourism industries, are expected to attend. Julia Simpson, head of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), and Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, will join them.
All Eyes on Music, Dance, and Timeless Traditions
The curtain rises on an immersive cultural showcase blending old and new. The eclectic duo Shkodra Elektronike, set to represent Albania at Eurovision 2025, will blend traditional folk with modern electronic beats. The Albanian National Ensemble will treat spectators to live performances featuring the soulful melodies of Kaba, a cherished traditional style, and mesmerizing iso-polyphony—a UNESCO-recognized vocal tradition. Accompanying them is renowned pianist Robert Bisha, adding a contemporary flair to timeless harmonies.
The dance takes centre stage under the guidance of acclaimed choreographer Edi Blloshmi. His contemporary creation, “Allbania All Senses,” reinterprets the nation’s cultural identity through movement, offering a striking fusion of history and modernity. The combined performances aim to convey Albania’s dynamic spirit, rooted in its storied past while evolving with the present.
A Feast for the Senses: Culinary Excellence at the Gala Reception
No celebration of Albania would be complete without its famed cuisine. Following the performances, attendees will be invited to a lavish dinner showcasing the nation’s gastronomic heritage. Chef Genti Malaveci, known for his innovative take on traditional Albanian dishes, will curate an exclusive menu. Guests can expect to savour Mediterranean-inspired flavours that reflect the country’s rich culinary traditions.
