SOMMER.NACHT.MUSIK Schloss Nordkirchen

The Westphalian Versailles

Schloss Nordkirchen in the Coesfeld district is the largest preserved moated castle complex in Germany and is one of Westphalia's most important baroque castles. Built in the early 18th century by the von Plettenberg family, it is considered the "Westphalian Versailles" — with its symmetrical castle structure, extensive moats, a French park, and perfectly staged garden architecture. It is precisely this majestic setting that makes the castle the ideal venue for open-air classical concerts.

SOMMER.NACHT.MUSIK — over 20 years of tradition

For over two decades, Musiklandschaft Westfalen has been organising the SOMMER.NACHT.MUSIK at Schloss Nordkirchen with its in-house festival:philharmonie westfalen. The concept: an open-air summer concert, combined with the elegance of a classical concert evening and the casualness of a summer picnic. Under the direction of chief conductor Michael Zlabinger, the orchestra plays a mixed programme of classical, romantic, and popular open-air hits — from Mozart and Tchaikovsky to film music and operetta highlights.

Picnic on the Castle Meadow

The special feature of SOMMER.NACHT.MUSIK: You can choose between classic seat reservations in categories A to C — with catering at your seat — or a picnic spot on the spacious castle meadow, where you are allowed to set up your own blankets, folding chairs, tables, candles, and fairy lights. Many guests turn it into a veritable summer ritual with champagne picnics, floral decorations, and family or friends. Admission is from 6 p.m. — so you can take your seat two hours before the concert begins, picnic, and enjoy the evening sun over the castle pond.

Tickets and Discounts

Tickets are available from €49 (picnic spot) or by category for numbered seats. Students and guests under 27 receive a 50% discount (show ID). There is a €6 surcharge at the box office, so online advance booking via musiklandschaftwestfalen.ticket.io is recommended. Those who regularly attend open-air classical concerts in Westphalia should mark this date as a must-see highlight of the summer — the atmosphere against the backdrop of the moated castle, the quality of the orchestra, and the mix of high culture and picnic feeling are unique in Germany.