Sommerbühne Holzwickede / Haus Opherdicke

Moated Castle as Open-Air Stage

In southern Holzwickede lies one of the most beautiful cultural venues in the eastern Ruhr area: the moated castle Haus Opherdicke. A magnificent Baroque complex with a moat, impressive castle gardens, and an 18th-century main building — and for four days in August, the venue for the Sommerbühne Holzwickede. In 2026, it runs from Thursday, August 20th, to Sunday, August 23rd.

2026 Programme — Kelvin Jones, Theatre, and More

The 2026 programme showcases the diverse genre breadth of the Sommerbühne:

• Kelvin Jones (Mupani) — Singer-Songwriter: The artist, known in Germany for the hit "Call You Home", is the festival's programme highlight. His concert in the castle setting is one of the most sought-after slots in the programme.
• Frida Kahlo Theatre Production: A biographical theatre production about the Mexican artist — music, theatre, and visual staging combined.
• Music from Various Genres: Pop, singer-songwriter, world music — curated over the four evenings.
• Family Programme: Daytime activities for children, hands-on workshops, and children's theatre.

Haus Opherdicke — The Venue

Haus Opherdicke is a preserved 18th-century moated castle and has been owned by the Unna district since 1985. The complex serves as a cultural centre, hosting regular art exhibitions, concerts, and readings. The castle park and the historic courtyard provide the Sommerbühne with a unique setting — a rare combination of natural scenery and architectural monument.

Holzwickede and the Unna District

Holzwickede is a small municipality in the Unna district in North Rhine-Westphalia, southeast of Dortmund — known primarily for Dortmund Airport located within its boundaries. The Unna district connects the eastern Ruhr area with the western Sauerland region and maintains a diverse cultural landscape, in which Haus Opherdicke plays a central role.

Organiser and Ticketing

The organiser is the Culture Department of the Unna district. Tickets are offered via the district's website — exact prices vary by event. Early booking is recommended, especially for the Kelvin Jones concert.

Getting There

By train: S-Bahn S5 or Regio to Holzwickede, then bus or taxi to Haus Opherdicke (approx. 4 km from the station). By car via the A1 or A44 (Unna exit), follow signs for Haus Opherdicke. Parking available at the castle.