Excursions
Participants of ICHQP 2026 are invited to join the excursions offering the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and culturally significant destinations in the region. Both excursions must be reserved during the online conference registration process.
Excursion 1 — Meißen: Porcelain Manufactory and Historic City Center
Source: Tommy Halfter (DML-BY)The city centre of Meißen with a view of Albrechtsburg Castle / Meißen Cathedral.
Date: September 3, 2026 (half-day trip)
Availability: included for registered participants
This half-day excursion is open to all conference participants, subject to capacity. The trip leads to the historic city of Meißen, internationally known as the birthplace of European porcelain.
The program includes either a guided visit to the famous Meissen Porcelain Manufactory or a guided tour to the Historic City Center and the Albrechtsburg Castle.
The manufactory visit offers the opportunity to learn about the centuries-old tradition of porcelain production and to observe artisans at work. An insight into the craftsmanship and history that made Meissen porcelain renowned worldwide is followed by a stroll along the enormous diversity of porcelain objects in the Porcelain Museum.
Second option allows to enjoy a guided tour to the Historic City Center of Meißen, characterized by its medieval streets, picturesque squares and views of the Elbe River. It will continue to the Albrechtsburg Castle, Germany´s oldest, late-Gothic castle: A trendsetter in the course of time and the first production site for Meissen Porcelain for more than 150 years. A short visit insight gives an overview of medieval life.
Excursion2 — Saxon Switzerland: Königstein Fortress and Bastei Bridge
Source: Frank Exß (DML-BY)Date: September 4, 2026 (full-day trip)
Availability: Limited, additional fee applies
The second excursion is a full-day trip to the spectacular Saxon Switzerland National Park, one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Germany.
The excursion starts with a visit to Königstein Fortress, one of the largest hilltop fortresses in Europe. Situated high above the Elbe River, the fortress provides fascinating insights into regional history as well as outstanding views of the surrounding landscape. Lunch will be offered here.
The tour also includes a visit to the famous Bastei Bridge rock formation, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Elbe Sandstone Mountains and the Elbe River valley. Participants will have the opportunity to walk across the iconic Bastei Bridge and enjoy the unique rock formations and scenic viewpoints. Depending on weather and physical condition participants are invited to experience the nature of Saxon Switzerland National Park by a short hike.
This excursion combines natural beauty, outdoor experience, and historical exploration, making it an ideal complement to the technical conference program.
Registration and Participation
- Both excursions require advance reservation during the online conference registration.
- The Saxon Switzerland excursion is limited and involves additional costs, which are available in the registration page.
- Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
More detailed schedules and practical information (departure times, meeting points and duration) will be provided to registered participants prior to the conference.
Social Events
In addition to the technical program, ICHQP 2026 offers three special social events that provide opportunities to network and experience the cultural highlights of Dresden in a relaxed atmosphere. The events are open to all conference participants. To support planning and logistics, participants are kindly requested to indicate their attendance for each event during the online conference registration.
Welcome Reception — Dresdner Zwinger (Nymphenbad)
Date: Monday, August 31, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM to 09:30 PM
Venue: Nymphenbad, Dresdner Zwinger
Participants: all conference participants and accompanying persons
Registration: Please indicate attendance in the conference registration form
Fee: Free of charge (kindly supported by MR Maschinenfabrik Rheinhausen)
Source: Michael R. Hennig (DML-BY)View from the inner courtyard of the Zwinger in Dresden.
The conference will open with a welcome reception in the unique setting of the Nymphenbad at the Dresdner Zwinger, one of Dresden’s most famous Baroque landmarks.
Participants are invited to enjoy an elegant cocktail reception in the open-air courtyard, surrounded by historic architecture and fountains. A festive atmosphere offers a perfect opportunity to meet colleagues and begin the conference in a relaxed and inspiring environment.
All conference participants and accompanying persons are warmly invited to attend.
Women in Power Quality — Evening Reception
Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Venue: Felix Restaurant, Dresden City Center
Participants: Female conference participants
Registration: Please indicate attendance in the conference registration form
Fee: Free of charge (kindly supported by ABB)
The Women in Power Quality event is an evening reception dedicated to female participants of ICHQP 2026. The aim of this event is to strengthen professional connections, foster exchange, and encourage collaboration among women active in power quality research and practice.
Held at the Felix Restaurant in the heart of Dresden, the reception provides a relaxed and inspiring setting to meet other female researchers, share experiences, and explore potential cooperation opportunities across institutions and countries.
Gala Dinner — Elbe River Boat Cruise to Pillnitz Palace
Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Venue: Boat “August der Starke”, Sächsische Dampfschifffahrt
Participants: All conference participants and accompanying persons
Registration: Please indicate attendance in the conference registration form
Fee: Free of charge (kindly supported by Condensator Dominit)
Source: Patrick Eichler (DML-BY)The Sächsische Dampfschiffahrts GmbH & Co. Conti Elbschiffahrts KG, or Sächsische Dampfschiffahrt or Weiße Flotte for short, with its headquarters in Dresden, is considered the oldest and largest paddle steamer fleet in the world.
The conference gala dinner will take place during a scenic boat cruise on the Elbe River, offering a unique perspective on the city of Dresden and its surroundings.
The cruise will depart from the Dresden City Center and travel along the Elbe toward Pillnitz Palace, passing many of the city’s most beautiful riverside landmarks. During the cruise, participants will enjoy a dinner buffet with accompanying music. Live explanations will be added to the panoramic views of the historic skyline and natural landscapes along the river.
This evening event is designed to provide a memorable social experience and to give opportunity for informal exchange in an exceptional setting.
Further details regarding departure point, boarding time, and buffet options will be provided to registered participants prior to the conference.