Salzburg Festival is one of the world’s most prestigious cultural events, bringing together the finest performers in opera, concert music, and theatre each summer.
Founded in 1920, its mission has always been to present art at the highest level against the stunning Baroque backdrop of Salzburg’s historic centre.
From 17th July to 30th August 2026, Salzburg will once again transform into a world-class performance venue. The festival combines great music with bold, creative productions and internationally acclaimed artists.
Amongst the highlights, Asmik Grigorian will take on the central role of the passionate outsider in Carmen, bringing new intensity to Georges Bizet’s iconic opera.
Richard Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos will also be presented in a striking new production set on Mars – placing the mythological drama into an unexpected, futuristic context.
In the drama section, Philipp Hochmair returns as Jedermann, Salzburg’s most iconic theatre figure. In this new interpretation, his life is profoundly shaped by three newly introduced female characters, adding fresh psychological depth to the classic play.
Naturally, Mozart’s works will hold a central position in the programme. Highlights include the opera Così fan tutte and the celebrated Mozart Matinees, which have long been a core pillar of the festival’s musical identity.
A special highlight accompanying the festival is the Siemens Festspielnächte on Kapitelplatz. Selected performances are shown free of charge on a giant open-air screen in outstanding quality.
Surrounded by Salzburg Cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress, visitors can enjoy opera and concert highlights under the summer sky. Guests may also reserve a table in the adjacent gastronomy area and experience the performances with fine food and a glass of wine.
Importantly, Salzburg Festival is only one part of the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. Salzburg hosts more than 4,000 events per year, ranging from classical concerts and jazz festivals to congresses, contemporary art exhibitions, traditional celebrations, and international sporting events.
This remarkable density and diversity of cultural programming reinforce Salzburg’s identity as a city where culture is not confined to a single season but lived throughout the year – a spirit captured in the city’s logo and wordmark, ‘Stage of the World’, expressing the idea that Salzburg itself becomes a stage all year round.