Schleusinger Countryfestival am Bergsee Ratscher

Country in the Southern Thuringian Forest

Schleusingen is located in the Hildburghausen district — nestled in the southern foothills of the Thuringian Forest. About three kilometers outside the town center, in the Ratscher district, lies the Bergsee Ratscher: a small reservoir with a campsite, beach, and event stage. The Schleusinger Countryfestival has been held here since 1988 — for almost four decades. It is one of the oldest and most renowned country festivals in Germany.

39th Edition 2026

The 39th edition will be celebrated in 2026. From July 24th to 26th, country and western bands from Germany, the USA, and other countries will perform on the open-air stage. Preceding this is the Country Camp from July 19th to 23rd — daily live music in a smaller setting, plus line dance workshops, a western market, and camping. Those who are country fans and have time can spend a whole week by the mountain lake.

Cowboy Flair and Camping by the Lake

What makes the festival special is the combination of country music and the idyllic lake setting. The stage is by the water, the audience sits in a semi-circle or stands on the dance floor, and behind the stage stretches the mountain lake — a special sight at sunset. Camping is part of the festival concept: hundreds of mobile homes and tents are spread across the area around the lake, and many regular guests travel here annually.

Line Dance and Western Market

In addition to the concerts, line dance workshops and a western market are part of the program. The market offers cowboy boots, hats, country fashion, handmade leather goods, and western decorations. Line dance — the choreographed group dance of the country scene — is offered in workshops for beginners and advanced dancers and shapes the lifestyle around the festival.

Southern Thuringian Hospitality

While the music follows international country standards, the catering remains distinctly Southern Thuringian: bratwurst, potato soup, and beer from regional breweries are part of the gastronomic offerings. The festival maintains its down-to-earth atmosphere — not a mass festival, but a weekend for country fans who appreciate the genre and the community.