Thursday 10 September 2026
Location: Heidelberg Congress Center (HCC)
Time: 18.45 – 20.15 Welcome Reception with light refreshments
Free of charge but RSVP is mandatory in online registration
All participants are warmly invited to the Welcome Reception, taking place on the first day of the congress at the Heidelberg Congress Center.
This informal reception provides the ideal opportunity to unwind after the first day, reconnect with colleagues, and meet new participants in a relaxed environment. Drinks and light bites will be served, creating a pleasant setting for networking and conversation within the exhibition area.
IMPORTANT: Note that the reception is not intended to replace dinner! Please be mindful that many restaurant kitchens close by 21.00 in Heidelberg so make dinner plans accordingly if you and your colleagues wish to dine out after the reception.
Friday, 11 September 2026
Location: Gutshof Ladenburg, Ladenburg
Attendance: Open to all registered participants
Time: 19.30 – 23.30 (buses departing from 18.45*)
Price: Early Bird: EUR 49 (until Wednesday, 8 July 2026, 23.59 CEST) | Regular fee: EUR 60 (as of 9 July 2026) | Accompanying person: EUR 70. All prices include VAT.
The Networking Dinner is the flagship social event of the ESDR 2026 program and is open to all participants wishing to attend. Guests will enjoy a relaxed networking dinner with food stations and buffet‑style service, creating plenty of opportunities to mingle, reconnect with colleagues, and celebrate the conclusion of the congress in a convivial atmosphere. A DJ will set the mood throughout the evening, and participants are warmly encouraged to take to the dance floor and enjoy the festivities.
Held at Gutshof Ladenburg, a beautifully restored historic estate situated between Heidelberg and Mannheim, the evening offers a memorable setting surrounded by nature and elegant architectural spaces. The venue combines rustic charm with contemporary comfort and features spacious indoor areas as well as a picturesque courtyard and park.
The dinner takes place in Ladenburg, one of Germany’s oldest towns, renowned for its Roman heritage and connections to automotive history. Ladenburg was home to Carl and Bertha Benz, pioneers of the automobile, and is closely associated with the early development of the motor car. This historic backdrop adds a unique cultural dimension to the evening.
Complimentary shuttle buses will be arranged, departing from and returning to the Heidelberg Congress Center (HCC). Timing details will be shared in advance of the event.
