Long Night of Culture Aschersleben

Oldest Town in Saxony-Anhalt, a Night Full of Culture

Aschersleben, located in the Salzlandkreis district, is considered the oldest officially documented town in Saxony-Anhalt — first mentioned in writing in 753. The old town, with its half-timbered houses, medieval city wall remnants, the late Gothic St. Stephen's Church, and the Aschersleben Museum, provides the backdrop for one of Saxony-Anhalt's most charming cultural events: the Long Night of Culture. It takes place annually in September, turning the city centre into a walkable cultural promenade for one evening.

At 14 locations between the market square, museum, St. Stephen's Church, Bestehorn Park, and various galleries and associations, the focus is on diversity: Live music in different styles — from classical to jazz to singer-songwriters —, readings of regional and national works, lectures on local history and contemporary topics, creative workshops for adults and children, open-air cinema, and stargazing with telescopes. Food and drinks are offered at most locations — mulled wine in September, bratwurst, punch, wine.

Letter Marathon and Actionbound

A special feature is the "Letter Marathon" participatory rally: a letter is hidden at each of the 14 locations. Those who collect all the letters can form the solution word and submit it for a prize draw with attractive prizes. Those using smartphones can complete the rally digitally via the Actionbound app — a nice bridge between analogue culture and digital gaming.

Aschersleben, Salzlandkreis, Saxony-Anhalt

With just under 26,000 inhabitants, Aschersleben is one of the medium-sized towns in the Salzlandkreis district. In recent years, the town has established itself as a regional cultural centre — with the Aschersleben Museum, the International Wandelbahn along the old town core, and several festivals. The Long Night of Culture is part of this strategy and is aimed at a local audience as well as day-trippers from Halle, Magdeburg, and Quedlinburg.