Pied Piper Open-Air Play Hameln

70th Anniversary 2026

The theatre group staging the Pied Piper Open-Air Play celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2026. This makes the performance one of the oldest continuously performed open-air events in Germany and a central element of Hameln's city culture and tourism.

Sundays May to September

From May 17 to September 20, 2026, performances will be held every Sunday at 12 PM, with a summer break. The performance lasts approximately 30 minutes and is free for all spectators.

Hochzeitshaus Terrace as Stage

The Hochzeitshaus, a magnificent Weser Renaissance building on the market square, serves as the stage with its terrace. The historic backdrop, the market atmosphere, and the clear view from the market square make the performance a special experience.

The Pied Piper Legend

The legend of the Pied Piper is one of the most famous German folk tales. It tells of an unknown man who lured the rats out of the city with his flute playing and drowned them. When the city refused to pay him, he used the same method to lure away the city's children, who were never seen again. The historical reference is June 26, 1284 — an event that remains unexplained to this day.

UNESCO Cultural Heritage

The performance and its associated tradition are recognized as intangible UNESCO cultural heritage. This internationally acknowledges the cultural significance of the legend and its preservation.

Subsequent Pied Piper Procession

After each performance, the Pied Piper leads a procession through Hameln's old town, followed by citizens, children, and tourists. This brings the story directly into the urban space.