69th International Rastede Music Days & 2nd EMC European Music Contest 2026

Top-Class Brass Music

The International Rastede Music Days have been a fixture on the European brass band calendar since 1958. The 69th edition in 2026 will once again bring bands, orchestras, big bands, and marching bands from Germany, Europe, and overseas to Rastede. The event is organized by the association of the same name, which traditionally hosts the festival in the Rastede Palace Park.

2026 Edition — Four Days of Programming

The 69th edition runs from Thursday, July 2nd, to Sunday, July 5th, 2026. For the first time in 2025, the European Music Contest (EMC) returns for its 2nd edition — a competition for brass bands from all over Europe. A total of over 3,000 musicians from around the world are expected.

Program Highlights

• Thursday, July 2nd, 7 PM: Opening with the Bundeswehr Big Band
• Friday/Saturday: Concerts, show blocks, and EMC competitions in various categories
• Saturday evening: Grand fireworks display over the Palace Park
• Sunday, July 5th, 10 AM: Grand street parade through Oldenburger Straße
• Sunday, 11:30 AM: EMC competition finals

Throughout all four days, there will be accompanying discos, smaller concerts, sessions, and meet-and-greet events. Several stages will be in use simultaneously.

Rastede — Palace Park as the Perfect Setting

The Rastede Palace Park is one of the few festival grounds in Europe with enough space for 3,000 musicians, multiple stages, competition venues, and a parade. The historic grounds with large clearings and avenues make the Music Days a visually and acoustically special experience.