Amberger Sommerfestival

Festival in a Romantic Courtyard

The Amberger Sommerfestival is an insider tip in the Oberpfalz festival scene. Organized by the City of Amberg in the courtyard of the city library (a historic building in the heart of Amberg's old town), the festival brings together lovers of small, high-quality live events. No mass open-air, no shows for 10,000 spectators — but an intimate festival with a maximum of a few hundred seats and a stage program that prioritizes quality over quantity.

Seven Evenings, One Series

In 2026, the festival runs from July 21st to August 6th and comprises seven evenings — typically Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Each evening starts at 8:30 PM and offers a concentrated program of one or two acts. The styles vary from the festival's opening to its closing:

• Blues: American, German, and European blues bands
• Jazz: Trio and quartet formations, swing combos, modern jazz
• Swing: classic repertoire and new interpretations
• Cabaret: German-language political and cultural cabaret (often well-known names like Lisa Fitz)
• World Music: occasional world music acts

In Case of Rain, Move to the City Theater

The festival takes place outdoors in the courtyard — a wonderful summer evening atmosphere under the open sky in good weather. In case of rain, the event is moved to the neighboring Stadttheater Amberg (City Theater Amberg). Ticket holders are guaranteed to enjoy a concert, regardless of the weather.

Amberg — Historic Old Town with Charm

Amberg (around 42,000 inhabitants) is the administrative seat of the Oberpfalz region. The old town is among the most intact medieval cityscapes in Bavaria: a completely preserved city wall, a market square with the town hall, the famous 'Stadtbrille' (two bridges over the Vils that look like eyeglasses), the Maltesergebäude (formerly Jesuit College), and the parish church of St. Martin. The city library itself is housed in a historic building, whose courtyard becomes the festival backdrop.

Who Should Go

Anyone who enjoys music and cabaret in a relaxed, intimate atmosphere — far from the mega-festival hustle and bustle — will love the Amberger Sommerfestival. Ideal for a couple spending a summer evening in Amberg, for a small tour group of culture enthusiasts, or for locals who regularly attend their city festival.