Schwerin Castle Festival Weekend — Son et Lumière and Historical Castle Festival

Three Program Pillars at the Castle

The Schwerin Castle Festival Weekend is one of the highlights of the summer event season in the state capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Over three days in June, it combines very different experiences around Schwerin Castle and its island: a modern light installation, a historical role-playing event, and a political open day.

Son et Lumière – Light and Laser Show

On two evenings, the facade of the Neo-Renaissance castle becomes the projection surface for an elaborate light and laser show. Inspired by the light spectacles of French castles like Chambord, each performance tells its own story: one show is dedicated to the elements of fire, water, air, and earth, while a second focuses on German composers and melodies. The shows start at 10:30 PM each evening.

Historical Castle Festival

During the Historical Castle Festival, over 150 participants in historical costumes travel back to the mid-19th century. They re-enact the ceremonial entry of Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II's court into the castle, completed in 1857. A procession, scenes of courtly life, and a craft market around the Victory Monument bring history to life.

Open State Parliament Day

As Schwerin Castle is now home to the State Parliament of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, the "Open State Parliament Day" is an integral part of the weekend. Visitors gain insights into the work of the state parliament and can visit rooms that are otherwise not accessible.

A Festival at the World Heritage Site

The Castle Festival Weekend is supported by the state capital Schwerin, together with the State Parliament, the Sparkasse savings bank, and the Friends of Schwerin Castle Association. It celebrates the Schwerin Residential Ensemble, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2024.