Emsland Open Air

Fifth Edition — A Young Success Story

In just a few years, the Emsland Open Air has established itself as one of the most important open-air festivals in the northwest. Organizer Goldrush Festival GmbH has been bringing international top acts to the Emsland since 2021, and visitor numbers have increased year after year. With over 30,000 visitors in previous years, the festival is among the largest music events in Lower Saxony outside the major cities.

Hänsch-Arena Meppen — A Stadium Stage

The venue is the Hänsch-Arena, the home stadium of third-division football club SV Meppen. The arena offers an ideal open-air stage: an infield flanked by grandstands, good sightlines, professional infrastructure, and the unmistakable stadium atmosphere. For the concert days, the pitch is converted into a huge concert stage with a main stage, lighting system, and sound setup.

Headliners 2026

• Friday, June 19, 2026 — Deep Purple: The British rock legend, fronted by Ian Gillan, with Steve Morse's successor Simon McBride and Don Airey, will play a major open-air show featuring hits from over five decades of rock history — from “Smoke on the Water” and “Highway Star” to “Child in Time” and current songs from the “=1” album.
• Saturday, June 20, 2026 — Manfred Mann's Earth Band: The progressive rock veterans led by band founder Manfred Mann deliver their signature blend of rock, blues, and synthesizer-driven pieces. Classics like “Blinded by the Light,” “Davy's on the Road Again,” and “Father of Day” can be expected.

Festival Atmosphere

The Emsland Open Air is more than just a concert — it's a two-day festival weekend with full infrastructure: catering, drink stands, merchandise, and camping in the surrounding area. The audience is multi-generational, with rock fans from three generations traveling to see the headliners.

Tickets and Travel

Tickets are available in advance through the official organizer channels, AdTicket, and other ticket outlets. Meppen is easily accessible via the A31 motorway and by train (DB); there are shuttle services or short walks from the train station to the Hänsch-Arena.