Überseefestival Bremen

A City Celebrates Its Own Music

The Überseefestival is different from most open-air festivals: no international headliners grace the stage here, but exclusively bands and acts from Bremen. For years, the clear motto has been 100 Percent Bremen – a commitment to the local scene that is rarely seen with such consistency. Over two days in late summer, more than 20 acts perform on three stages, complemented by the Zollkantine. It's a firework display of Bremen's music scene – from rock and pop to electronic sounds and singer-songwriters.

The venue is the Altes Zollamt at Hansator 1 in the Überseestadt, the former overseas port district in the Walle borough. The special feature: the festival grounds are located directly in front of the large rehearsal room complex in the Altes Zollamt. Many of the performing bands simply carry their instruments out the door of their rehearsal room – so the festival literally brings the music from the building onto the stage in front of it. Admission is free.

Promoting the Bremen Band Scene

Behind the festival is the non-profit association Musikszene Bremen e.V., dedicated to promoting the local music scene. Bremen bands can apply every year (application deadline usually March 31st); the festival thus also serves as a springboard for emerging artists. This very mix of established and new Bremen acts creates its unique character.

• When: two days at the end of August
• Where: Altes Zollamt, Hansator 1, Überseestadt, Bremen-Walle
• Program: 20+ acts, three stages plus Zollkantine, 100% Bremen
• Admission: free

Maritime Ambiance in the Überseestadt

The location at the Altes Zollamt gives the Überseefestival an unmistakable backdrop: brick, industrial architecture, proximity to the harbor, and the urban flair of the Überseestadt, where coffee and cotton were once handled. Anyone wanting to get to know the real, vibrant music scene of the state of Bremen – just about 15 minutes from the main train station – will find themselves in the right place here.