substanzen jetzt.
the festival
Psychoactive substances are once again at the center of public debate. From November 12 to 29, 2026, Photobastei Zurich will devote two and a half weeks to this multifaceted topic through exhibitions, panel discussions, concerts, film screenings, workshops, and informal gatherings.
Psychedelics are currently attracting growing attention—not only as recreational or party drugs, but also as promising therapeutic tools for the treatment of depression, addiction, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related conditions, as well as in end-of-life care. But what does this development mean for our society? What opportunities does it create, and what risks does it entail?
The festival “Substanzen Jetzt.” continues the acclaimed series of events held at Photobastei in 2025 and 2026. It approaches psychedelics from a wide range of perspectives and creates a space for dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and the exchange of experiences. Experts from the fields of medicine, psychotherapy, philosophy, and sociology, alongside underground pioneers and users, will contribute informed insights and diverse viewpoints.
What does the integration of psychedelic experiences—and the often-cited “window of opportunity”—actually mean? How are psychedelics used in therapeutic contexts? Can microdosing help with migraines or symptoms related to menopause? What role can these substances play in old age or at the end of life? What might responsible legislation look like? And what are the potential pitfalls—from promises of salvation and guruism to cultural appropriation in ceremonial practices?
The festival presents a wide variety of formats: psychedelic art will be featured throughout the exhibition spaces; panel discussions will tackle controversial questions; intimate roundtable sessions will offer opportunities for direct exchange with experts; concerts and experimental formats will explore altered states of consciousness without the use of substances; films will open up new perspectives; and workshops will invite participants into immersive experiences. During the middle weekend of the festival, our partner, the City of Zurich’s Drug Information Center (DIZ), will also host a vibrant celebration.
The festival “Substanzen Jetzt.” is organized by the Society for the Expansion of Consciousness, the “substanzielles.ch” project, and Photobastei.
Opening: Thursday, November 12, 2026, 6:00 pm
Closing: Sunday, November 29, 2026, 3:00 pm
The full program will be announced soon.