This year marks the 16th edition of the Dresden Schlössernacht, which will transform the grounds of the Elbe Castles—Albrechtsberg, Eckberg, Lingnerschloss, and Saloppe—into a massive open-air festival on July 25, 2026. For over eleven hours, starting at 6 p.m. and continuing into the early morning hours, the event will offer a diverse program of music, art, light shows, and culinary delights along six kilometers of paths through a 32-hectare, illuminated area.
Around 250 artists will perform in nearly 80 concerts on 15 stages. The musical spectrum caters to nearly every taste: from ’80s hits with Sydney Youngblood and Frank Sinatra interpreter Roger Pabst to German rock with Mazze Wiesner (tributes to Maffay, Lindenberg & Co.) to newcomers like Valentin Kuhn, alternative indie, Latin sounds, jazz, flamenco, and danceable party music. Highlights include the South Terrace with disco and flamenco, the quiet Elbe View Stage for a picnic atmosphere, the Jazz Stage at Eckberg featuring the Forster Family and KontraPiano, Latin American rhythms at the Kavaliershaus, and the headphone disco at the Saloppe.
The Roman Baths will host a light and acrobatics show as well as world music by Victor Rodriguez; information on the baths’ renovation will also be available there. On Roseninsel, Tom Roeder will spin tunes at his mobile dance club following the projection show at the castle. The highlight is the grand fireworks display set to music at 10:45 p.m. by Mathias Kürbs. Afterward, the program continues on many stages.
NEW: The Exclusive Lingner Lounge
New this year is the exclusive Lingner Lounge at Lingnerschloss, complete with catering. Stilt walkers, fantasy characters, and guests in glamorous costumes will add to the atmosphere. Artistic Director Sylvia Grodd emphasizes diversity that appeals to all age groups. Organizer Mirco Meinel sees the festival as a deliberate break from everyday life and a shared experience for family and friends.
Nearly 50 food stands invite visitors to feast—from langos and tarte flambée to regional specialties and offerings from renowned restaurants such as the Stresa or Schloss Eckberg. When it comes to wine, regionality takes center stage, such as with the first organic rosé from Schloss Proschwitz. The Meißner Schwerter private brewery, as the main sponsor, provides beer and logistical support. Speaking of sponsors: the Schlössernacht receives no government funding and relies on sponsors such as Glashütte Original, EA Ramonat, and Sternauto. About 85 percent of the 6,000 limited-edition strolling tickets have already been sold. Late-night tickets, valid from 11:00 p.m., allow for later entry. Stroll tickets cost 58.50 euros plus a presale fee; late-night tickets start at 20 euros (early bird rate until July 11). The VIP ticket for the Lingner Lounge is 195 euros, including catering.
The organizers recommend traveling by public transportation, as no parking is available on site. Tram line 11 will run more frequently, and there will also be a free shuttle bus.
For more information, visit dresdner-schloessernacht.de.
