Urban Blooms: Green in the City

Innsbruck is a city that perfectly balances the beauty of nature with the vibrancy of city life. One of the things I love most is that they strive to create spaces that bring people together, especially when the warm weather arrives. Innsbruck is known for its winters, skiing, snow, mountains, but when the sun comes out so do the people! Especially down along the river on the Marktplatz. I can think of no better place for Urban Blooms to revive their communal space this year than the Marktplatz! 

Urban Blooms is all about creating sustainable and engaging outdoor spaces that everyone can enjoy. Last year they transformed Kiebachgasse and the old town to a green, chill-out area to distract from the construction zone replacing this old town cobblestones and this year they have set their sights on the Marktplatz. 

I stopped by as they were setting it all up, filling the area with shrubs, trees, and flowers —turning the grey asphalt into a burst of greenery and color. The transformation is not just aesthetic; it’s a sustainable solution for creating communal spaces that are both inviting and environmentally conscious. The addition of greenery and open seating areas ensures that people can relax, socialize, and breathe in the fresh air, while contributing to a greener, more sustainable city. The Marktplatz is normally a place to soak up the sun and share a drink with friends whether it be on the Markthalle terrace, the Marktbar am Inn or just on the asphalt but Urban Blooms has added to the comfort, color and fun of the space.

There are games painted on the ground, table tennis tables and even a pod where you can loan comfy chairs using an app on your phone. Don’t worry, it’s not complicated, simply scan the QR code on the pod, follow the simple instructions, use the chairs then bring them back! Easy as pie! The event encourages a deep connection with both nature and the community, fostering a sense of togetherness that is at the heart of Innsbruck’s charm. Bring your friends, play in the sun and forget your troubles! From table tennis to a big chessboard, the games invite everyone to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and simply have fun.

Innsbruck is a place where nature and urban life go hand in hand. While the city is well-known for its winter sports, it truly comes alive when the weather warms up, with people of all ages flocking outdoors to soak up the sun. Urban Blooms serves as a perfect reminder of this, transforming the city center into a green, communal space that invites everyone to participate in the joy of being outside.

So, whether you’re a long-time local or a first-time visitor, Urban Blooms offers a unique opportunity to experience Innsbruck in a new, exciting way. It’s a celebration of nature, creativity, and community—a true reflection of the city’s spirit. So, take a stroll to the Marktplatz, release your inner child, and enjoy the beauty of Innsbruck in full bloom!

If you're interested in more background, information, or to check out last years set up, check out my colleague Christian's entry here.

All Photos : @Laura Wunsch