Summer on the Altmarkt Schmalkalden

Nine Thursday evenings in the medieval old town

The Schmalkalden Altmarkt is one of the most beautiful market squares in Southern Thuringia – a complete ensemble of half-timbered houses, the town hall, and the St. Georg town church. In summer, this historic square becomes a concert stage every Thursday evening. The "Summer on the Altmarkt" series has been the reliable meeting point for locals and guests on warm summer evenings for years. You sit in the open-air gastronomy, listen to live music, and look out at one of the most impressive Renaissance backdrops in Thuringia.

"Summer Sounds in the Heart" — The Variety

The program of the series is deliberately broad: each Thursday brings a different style. Country and line dancing, oldies from the 70s and 80s, Schlager, Rock'n'Roll, pop classics, acoustic live sets, and DJ nights alternate. Within the nine dates, you are quite sure to find at least one evening that is exactly to your taste. Local artists and nationally known acts usually play from 5 PM until shortly after 8:30 PM – perfect for a long, relaxed summer evening.

Schmalkalden — The Half-Timbered Town with the Schmalkaldic League

Schmalkalden, located in the southwestern Thuringian Forest, is historically known primarily as the site of the "Schmalkaldic League" – a Protestant defensive alliance from the 16th century. This is evidenced by Wilhelmsburg Castle and the old town with its approximately 600 half-timbered houses. The "Summer on the Altmarkt" series stages precisely this backdrop as the town's open-air living room: history as a stage, citizens as an audience, summer music as the program.

Culinary Supporting Program

The restaurateurs on the Altmarkt – restaurants, cafés, and ice cream parlors – offer an extended menu on concert evenings. Regional specialties such as Thuringian Rostbratwurst, Thuringian Klöße, and local beer complement the musical program. Free admission.