The OMR Festival 2025 in Hamburg has wrapped up, showcasing its status as one of Europe's largest digital events. With approximately 67,000 visitors, over 1,000 exhibitors, and more than 800 speakers, the festival took place on May 6 and 7, 2025, and featured an impressive array of discussions focusing on the future of the digital and marketing industries.
Among the many highlights, artificial intelligence (AI) emerged as the dominant theme across the festival stages. Nick Turley, the product chief of ChatGPT, addressed the audience on the Conference Stage, countering the narrative that Germany is lagging behind in AI development. "Germany has so much potential. I hope we don't get in our own way," Turley remarked, emphasizing that Germany is one of OpenAI's most important markets. He noted a significant increase in the number of ChatGPT users from Germany, which grew by 20 percent just in April.
Attendees at the festival enjoyed a wealth of content, including 270 masterclasses, 200 guided tours, and 125 side events, all designed to foster discussions on the latest trends and innovations in the tech and marketing sectors. Companies like Booking.com and Zalando shared insights into how they harness AI to streamline their processes and enhance their products.
One of the emotional highlights of the festival came from Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds, who participated in a talk with OMR founder Philipp Westermeyer and TV moderator Steven Gätjen. During the discussion, Reynolds received a call from his five-year-old daughter, who had just lost her first tooth. The moment was touching, showcasing the balance between his Hollywood career and family life. "That's great, my love," he responded to her excitement, bringing a personal touch to an otherwise professional setting.
Reynolds, known for his role in films like "Deadpool," spoke candidly about his ventures in marketing and creativity, sharing valuable insights with the audience. He highlighted the importance of genuine human connections, stating, "I like my friends. And I enjoy talking to real people," a sentiment that resonated with many in attendance.
In addition to Reynolds, the festival featured a range of prominent speakers, including sports icons like Gerard Piqué, who discussed the innovative "Kings League" format he created, and basketball legend Dirk Nowitzki, who reflected on his illustrious career. The event also included discussions on the political landscape, with Airbus supervisory board chairman René Obermann criticizing the current U.S. administration's trade policies. "The Americans are lighting the world on fire with their trade war," he stated, calling for a confident and sovereign Europe in the face of global challenges.
As the festival buzzed with energy, attendees were also treated to a vibrant atmosphere filled with networking opportunities and live performances. The OMR Festival is known for its lively after-parties, and this year was no exception. The biggest after-party featured performances from renowned artists like Sido, Oli.P, and Max Giesinger, creating a festive environment that encouraged mingling and collaboration among attendees.
The festival’s layout was expansive, requiring visitors to navigate a vast area filled with stages, food trucks, and expo halls. Walking between these venues could easily add up to around 15,000 steps per day, prompting organizers to provide over 100 massage chairs for those needing a break from the hustle and bustle. While water was theoretically available for free at BRITA dispensers, many attendees found it challenging to locate them, leading to a somewhat costly experience at drink stations where a small plastic cup came with a 5-euro deposit.
Food options at the festival were diverse yet pricey. A classic Döner could cost up to 16 euros, while Gutfried offered a more budget-friendly vegan or meat currywurst for just 3 euros. Despite the high prices, the food selection reflected current trends, with plenty of vegan options and sustainable choices available.
Looking ahead, the next OMR Festival is scheduled for May 5 and 6, 2026, with festival passes currently available at an early bird price of 439 euros until May 23, 2025. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the OMR Festival remains a vital hub for founders, entrepreneurs, and digital enthusiasts seeking to connect, learn, and grow in an ever-changing industry.
In conclusion, the OMR Festival 2025 has solidified its place as a crucial event for those in the digital and marketing fields, offering invaluable networking opportunities and insights into the future of technology and innovation. With its dynamic atmosphere and engaging content, the festival is a must-attend for anyone looking to make their mark in the digital realm.
