Nacht der Vulkane 2026 – 19th Edition

The Laacher See volcanic region, characterized by one of Germany's youngest active volcanoes and a landscape shaped by countless eruptions with maars, lava flows, and tuff, is the setting for one of the country's most original event formats: the Nacht der Vulkane. In 2026, the 19th edition will take place – a festival week format that connects various locations in the region into a joint program.

From July 17 to 26, 2026, the festival week will run for ten days. Mendig serves as the central organizer, but the individual program points are distributed throughout the region: Plaidt, Burgbrohl, Maria Laach, Kruft, Nickenich, and other municipalities contribute their own accents. The diversity ranges from culinary highlights and cultural and concert events to nature experiences and family programs.

The festival week will open from July 17 to 19 with the food truck festival in Nettepark Plaidt. On the same Friday evening (July 17), the Italian Night will take place in Burgbrohl – a concert with Italian music in a special atmosphere. Monday, July 20, is designated as "Blue Monday" in Kruft, Mendig, and Nickenich – with various events focusing on the region's themes. Tuesday, July 21, features the "Maria Laach Day": the famous Benedictine Abbey on Laacher See opens its doors for special encounters, complemented by the wine tasting "Vulkan trifft Vino" (Volcano meets Wine), which focuses on wines from volcanic soils.

Wednesday, July 22, is Children's Day with the Vulkan-Express (small passenger train), Burg Olbrück, and "Geo for Kids" – science and geology presented in a child-friendly manner. On Thursday, July 23, the Mayor's Hike offers a guided tour through the volcanic region. On Friday, July 24, JP Weber presents "Der Narr" (The Fool) – high-quality cabaret.

The spectacular climax is the Lichterfest (Festival of Lights) in Hain on July 25 and 26. Starting at 2 p.m., the area around Burg Olbrück transforms into a colorful festival ground with magicians, stilt walkers, and a vibrant market. The RPR1 stage presents live music with the band "Schall & Rauch." The crowning moment: at 11 p.m., a simulated volcanic eruption will be triggered from the tower of Burg Olbrück – an extraordinary spectacle with pyrotechnics, light, and sound, impressively staging the region's geological past.

The Nacht der Vulkane is more than a festival: it is a tourist format that combines the geological uniqueness of the region (Vulkaneifel, Laacher See, UNESCO-recognized Geo-Park) with cultural, culinary, and social content.