WHAT'S NEW?! #42 - VILLACH IN SEPTEMBER 2024
The welcome2villach team collects the most important news from around Villach in a compact, monthly “News Story”, with links to more information. In September, Villach is focusing on European Mobility Week, European Bike Week, the start of a new school year with expanded educational offerings, various environmental projects, and diverse cultural and social events.
- Growth and Recognition for Lam Research: The Villach site of Lam Research recently opened a new multifunctional building ("Building 17"), providing 4,500 square meters of additional logistics and production space, expanding the company’s capacity. During the opening ceremony, the semiconductor manufacturing equipment maker received Villach's city coat of arms as a token of recognition for its commitment to the region.
- New School and Kindergarten Year Starts in Villach: At the start of the new 2024/25 school year, Villach is investing in safety and infrastructure around schools and kindergartens by renewing crosswalks and safety markings. Additionally, the new public kindergarten and the Mini Educational Lab at the tpv Technology Park Villach are opening, offering children modern learning opportunities in STEM subjects. The youth center JUZ will also return from the summer break on September 3rd with a diverse program for teenagers aged 12 and up.
- “Lights Out!” for the Environment: Villach is launching the "Lights Out!" initiative to reduce light pollution and protect the environment by having numerous businesses turn off their nighttime lighting earlier. This measure aims not only to preserve the circadian rhythms of people and animals but also to promote biodiversity by attracting fewer insects with artificial light. On September 6th, many public lights will be symbolically turned off during Earth Night.
- Sandarium for Wild Bees: A new sandarium has been built in Vogelweide Park, providing an ideal habitat for wild bees with unwashed sand, deadwood, and nectar-rich plants, contributing to the promotion of biodiversity. The sandarium not only serves as a habitat for many animals but also as an educational tool to convey knowledge about biological and ecological processes in sandy ecosystems. Schools can use it to teach children about the lifestyle of wild bees.
European Mobility Week in Villach: From September 16th to 22nd, the European Mobility Week will take place in Villach. During this week, the public can better familiarize themselves with the public transportation network, with all Kärntner Linien connections being free to use. Those wishing to contribute to the expansion of mobility options can also participate in Villach's mobility survey from September 9th to October 20th.
Off to the European Bike Week 2024! From September 2nd to 7th, 2024, numerous motorcycle fans will gather for the 26th European Bike Week at the picturesque Lake Faaker See. The diverse program includes live concerts, an impressive Harley-Davidson expo, and Europe's largest biker parade (Saturday, September 7th, starting at 12 p.m.). New this year is the spectacular drone show, featuring 200 synchronized drones, creating breathtaking moments on Friday and Saturday starting at 9:30 p.m.
Exciting Opportunities for Women: The Villach Women’s Fair will take place on September 21st from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Bamberg Halls, providing a platform for women of all ages and life situations. Experts in the fields of work, health, and social affairs will be available to answer questions and give lectures on interesting topics. Additionally, the Villach Women’s Academy will start on September 19th, focusing on women’s financial independence, self-esteem enhancement, and mental health. The city will cover the course costs; however, as places are limited, early registration at the adult education center is required.
Events: In September, Villach offers a diverse cultural program. On September 20th, there will be a concert by the band CULK at Kulturhof:villach, and starting on September 27th, the Kulturforum Villach invites you to a colorful jazz autumn program. Additionally, from September 12th, an exhibition featuring miniature figures by Lorenz Friedrich will be on display at the Galerie Freihausgasse, accompanied by an exciting supporting program with workshops and artist talks.