Marktplatz Open-Air Westerfilde & Bodelschwingh 2026

Westerfilde and Bodelschwingh — Dortmund Districts with History

Westerfilde and Bodelschwingh are located in the Mengede district in the far northwest of Dortmund, on the border with Castrop-Rauxel. Both districts are former mining and railway settlements, still characterized today by their workers' housing architecture and a strong sense of community. For years, they have been undergoing urban and social enhancement as part of the federal-state program Soziale Stadt (Social City) — Westerfilde Market Square, where the open-air event takes place, is one of the central improvement projects.

Marktplatz Open-Air — The Neighbourhood Celebrates Itself

The Marktplatz Open-Air is more than just a concert event: it's a two-day neighbourhood festival that establishes Westerfilde Market Square as a new meeting place and shows that urban renewal is not just about paving stones and concrete, but also about culture, community, and children's laughter.

Friday, August 27th — Family Day

The opening day is specifically aimed at families:

• 3:00 PM — Children's Theatre "Motte will Meer!" A heartwarming story about longing and departure, performed by the children's ensemble "Ach Ja!"
• 6:00 PM — Concert with Just4Oldies. The cover band brings rock and pop classics from the 60s to the 80s to the open-air stage — sing-along songs, ideal for all generations
• 9:00 PM — Open-Air Cinema: Guardians of the Galaxy. The Marvel classic as a family film under the open sky — blankets and cushions are welcome

Saturday, August 28th — District Day

The second day focuses more on local players:

• 3:00 PM — Children's Theatre "Käpt'n Knall und das Geheimnis der Schwarzen Socke" — a second children's theatrical highlight for the youngest viewers
• 6:00 PM — Die Bezirksband plays interactively: The local combo invites visitors to sing along, dance along, and even play along
• 9:00 PM — Audience Film: A selection of three films will be put to a vote online beforehand — the audience decides what is shown

Registration — Limited Seating

Due to limited seating, pre-registration is mandatory: Name, address, phone number, and desired program items via email or by calling 0159 01 999 869. Seats will be reserved; those who arrive without registration risk not getting a seat.

Bad Weather Plan

If the weather doesn't cooperate on August 27th/28th, the festival will be postponed entirely to the backup dates of September 10th and 11th, 2026. The decision will be communicated in advance.

Soziale Stadt — Cultural Enhancement

The Marktplatz Open-Air is funded by the urban development program Soziale Stadt (Federal and State of North Rhine-Westphalia). The goal is to strengthen not only the built environment but also the social and cultural infrastructure in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Admission is therefore consistently free.

Around and About: Discover Mengede

Anyone who makes their way to the Mengede district should take time for Bodelschwingh Castle — a 13th-century moated castle complex, privately inhabited today but viewable from the outside. Mengede Market Square, with its weekly market and small cafés, is also worth a visit before or after the open-air weekend.