Audi to celebrate 100th Birthday with Fireworks

Audi marks the 100th birthday of the brand with a multi-day celebration and spectacular attractions

* Opening ceremony with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Ingolstadt on July 16, 2009

* Top-tier pop concert in the Audi Piazza

* Historic Donau Ring for motorsports fans

* Grand finale with classical concert and fireworks in Klenze Park

The brand with the four rings will kick off the celebrations marking its 100th birthday with a grand opening ceremony at the Audi Forum Ingolstadt on July 16. The ceremony, which will be attended by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, will launch a four-day series of events. The premium manufacturer with the slogan "Vorsprung Durch Technik" will mark its centennial by once again offering a compelling demonstration of its core competencies - attractive design and innovative technology. A world premiere awaits the guests in Ingolstadt on July 16: Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the AUDI AG Board of Management, will unveil a new Audi model in front of around 2,500 invited guests. "We are proud of the tradition of the Audi brand and our company's history of success. You have to be aware of your roots if you want to shape the future with new ideas and innovations," says Stadler. The ceremony will open with a performance by star pianist Lang Lang. The Chinese virtuoso has served as a global brand ambassador for Audi since 2006. Another highlight: Munich-based musician and producer Leslie Mandoki have composed a commissioned work for Audi to mark its 100th birthday. Under the baton of Paul Momberger, the Neue Philharmonie Frankfurt will debut the classical work before the invited guests on July 16.