International Folk Music Day Aldersbach

Folk Music Day Aldersbach — when the monastery becomes a stage for tradition

In the heart of Lower Bavaria's Aldersbach, south of Passau, lies one of Bavaria's most beautiful baroque ensembles: the former Cistercian monastery Aldersbach with its famous Asam Church. This is where the International Folk Music Day takes place once a year — at the end of September — one of Southern Germany's largest regular folk music events.

Aldersbach in the Passau district — brewery and monastery in one

Aldersbach belongs to the Passau district in the state of Bavaria. The municipality is known far beyond Lower Bavaria for the Aldersbach brewery — the brewery complex is part of the historic monastery grounds and the festival's venue. The monastery square, baroque garden, and inner courtyard transform into an extensive festival area on the day of the event, with three stages, several small performance areas, a farmers' market, and extensive outdoor catering.

Music from Bavaria and the world

The musical concept is hybrid: regional folk music ensembles from Bavaria, Austria, and Bohemia meet international folk groups, some of whom travel from distant regions. Over 30 ensembles perform on a single day — those who keep track of the schedule can jump between Stubenmusi (chamber music), Irish folk, Alpine yodeling, Croatian Tamburica groups, and Eastern European dance formations.

Two prestigious awards

The Folk Music Day also serves as an awards ceremony:

• MENSCHEN in EUROPA Cabaret Prize — awarded to Bavarian cabaret artists with a special connection to the people (recipients include Couplet AG, Wolfgang Krebs)
• MiE Youth Folk Music Prize — endowed with €1,000, awarded in three categories (music, dance, song) to young ensembles

Farmers' market, crafts, and delicacies

In addition to the music, a traditional farmers' market, craft demonstrations, and Lower Bavarian delicacies (Brotzeiten, Bratl, Bauernkrapfen, Aldersbach beer on tap) characterize the day. The festival thus clearly positions itself as a Bavarian home festival — but one that dares to look outward.