Plassenburg Open Airs

Plassenburg — Renaissance Jewel above Kulmbach

Perched above the town of Kulmbach in Upper Franconia since the 12th century, Plassenburg Castle is one of Germany's most important Renaissance castles. The Schönen Hof, an arcaded courtyard with artfully designed 16th-century reliefs, is particularly famous and counts among the most beautiful Renaissance courtyards north of the Alps. It is precisely in this historic courtyard that the Plassenburg Open Airs have taken place for years: a compact open-air concert series with national and international appeal.

Six Concert Evenings in July 2026

In 2026, the concert series runs from July 14th to 19th, spanning six evenings across various genres. The opening act on July 15th and 16th is the Mozart cover show "Amadeus Rockt" — a spectacular fusion of classical music and rock. On July 17th, Bavarian cabaret artist Martina Schwarzmann follows with her unmistakable, wry Bavarian humor. On July 18th, the Berlin-based gothic rock band MONO INC., known for hits like "Children of the Dark," will perform. The grand finale on July 19th features Irish world star Chris de Burgh, who has sold over 50 million records and will make his first appearance in almost three years at Plassenburg — his last performance there is considered legendary in the region.

An Atmosphere Unlike Any Other Concert Venue

What sets the Plassenburg Open Airs apart is the combination of historic ambiance and concert experience: The Schönen Hof accommodates only a few thousand spectators, creating an unusually intimate atmosphere for stars of this magnitude. The Renaissance arcades, the castle rock, and the evening lighting transform each concert night into a total work of art. Acoustically, the series benefits from the sheltered courtyard — no wind turbulence, no open expanses, but an almost natural stage resonance.

Program and Tickets

Organizers Motion Kommunikation and the Tourism & Event Service of the City of Kulmbach have curated the series for years with a balanced mix of rock, cabaret, classical crossover, and world stars. Tickets are sold through official advance booking offices and the City of Kulmbach. Travel to Kulmbach is well-connected by train (DB line Bamberg–Hof). Plassenburg Castle itself is accessible from the town center on foot via a castle path or by the castle shuttle.