Abbey Festival of the Wadgassen Orchestra Association

An Abbey Courtyard as a Concert Stage

The Abteifest of the Orchesterverein Wadgassen owes its name to an unusual location: the Abbey courtyard of the former Premonstratensian Abbey of Wadgassen. Founded in the 12th century, the Abbey shaped the spiritual and economic life of the region for centuries, was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War, rebuilt in the 18th century, secularized during the French Revolution — and today serves as a cultural center with the German Newspaper Museum, a stage, and event spaces. The inner courtyard offers an almost magical open-air atmosphere.

Three Days of Music, from Polka to Pop

The Orchesterverein Wadgassen e.V. usually organizes its Abbey Festival on a weekend in mid-June — typically Friday to Sunday, sometimes until Monday. Friendly music clubs, brass orchestras, show bands, and cover bands take turns on stage. Classic brass music meets modern pop and rock cover bands; evenings are for dancing to Bavarian Polka, Schlager, and Rock'n'Roll. Sundays usually feature a morning pint (Frühschoppen) with a music club and a large midday meal from the club's family.

From Civic Festival to Major Event

The festival is more than just a club concert: for years, it has been Wadgassen's social highlight, attracting visitors from the entire Saarbrücken regional association, the Saarlouis district, and the Palatinate. Admission is usually symbolic or free, and the club itself handles the catering — with classic grilled specialties, Schwenkbraten (marinated pork neck), Karlsberg beer, and homemade cakes.

An Important Saarland Music Club

The Orchesterverein Wadgassen, led by Dr. Björn Jakobs (Chairman) and Tobias Beck (Deputy), is one of the largest and most active brass music associations in Saarland. With a large brass orchestra, youth orchestra, show band, and brass crew, the club covers a wide musical spectrum — and uses the Abbey Festival to showcase itself to the public and fill the club's coffers for youth work.

Discover Wadgassen

Visitors to the Abbey Festival should combine their visit with a trip to the German Newspaper Museum (in the immediate vicinity in the Abbey courtyard) and a walk in the Bisttal valley. Wadgassen is also easily accessible via the Saarradweg (Saar Cycle Path).