Less stimuli, more togetherness - the "Quiet Hour" starts in Wiesbaden in July
Working together for a city center with less sensory overload, more inclusion and relaxed shopping
Wiesbaden's city center is a place of encounters, diversity and shared experiences.
However, for many people, visiting stores or restaurants can be very stressful - for example due to bright lights, loud music and noises or constant acoustic signals. This flood of stimuli can be particularly challenging for people with sensory sensitivities, such as those with autism, ADHD, migraines or Long Covid.
The "quiet hour" - a sign of inclusion and consideration
With the new "Quiet Hour" initiative, the state capital of Wiesbaden, the state of Hesse and the association gemeinsam zusammen e.V. (opens in a new tab) are setting an example for greater accessibility and social participation.
From July 2025, participating stores in Wiesbaden city center will be much quieter every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. - for example through:
- Dimmed lighting reduces bright visual stimuli.
- Background music is turned down or switched off completely.
- Loudspeaker announcements are avoided where possible.
- Additional services such as rest points or personal consultation appointments are possible - individually adapted to the possibilities
A win-win situation for everyone - because a more relaxed shopping experience is good for everyone
A stimulus-reduced environment not only makes everyday life and access to the city center easier for people with special sensory needs, but also creates a more pleasant atmosphere for everyone when shopping. This benefits not only the customers but also the employees in the participating stores.
Become a partner now
Numerous retailers have already agreed to actively help shape the "Silent Hour".
Would you also like to take part? Then join us in sending a strong signal for more inclusion and customer proximity! Whether you are a retail store, fashion boutique, optician or supermarket - every establishment can take part and design its own "Silent Hour".
If you have any questions or require further information, please contact Jens Ackermann and his team from Wiesbaden City Management citymanagementwiesbadende or Andrea Hausy, Municipal Inclusion Officer for the State Capital of Wiesbaden, inklusionsbeauftragtewiesbadende Tel.: 0611 315896.
Overview of participating companies
- LuisenForum, Kirchgasse 6, Wiesbaden
- Galeria Kaufhof, Kirchgasse 35-43, Wiesbaden
- Riemenschneider furniture and children's studio, Bahnhofstraße 19-21, Wiesbaden
- Neusehland, Langgasse 6, Wiesbaden
- Piano-Schulz, Mühlgasse 11-13, Wiesbaden
- Xocoatl, fine chocolates, Grabenstraße 24, Wiesbaden
- Vaternahm bookshop, An den Quellen 12, Wiesbaden
- Ile 22, Pottery & Galery, Nerostraße 22, Wiesbaden
- Berg-Loft Wiesbaden, Maloja flagship store, Taunusstraße 26
- Sister Roots, sustainable fashion concept store & hub, Wagemannstraße 37, Wiesbaden
- Kunst-Schäfer, Faulbrunnenstraße 11, Wiesbaden