Leipzig’s 2023 festival season features a medley of gothic, classical, jazz & contemporary arts!

The city of Leipzig has long been celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant music scene, and its 2023 festival season is testament to that, featuring a rich and diverse medley of gothic, classical, jazz & contemporary arts festivals.

From mesmerising music performances to immersive cultural celebrations, here are some of the most anticipated events that promise to delight locals and visitors alike in Leipzig.

Wave Gothic Festival – May 26-29, 2023:

Prepare to be immersed in the darkly enchanting world of Wave Gothic Festival, one of the largest gatherings of the Gothic subculture in the world. With its diverse program featuring more than 100 concerts and live music performances, art exhibitions, Gothic fashion shows, and an otherworldly atmosphere, this festival offers an experience that transcends boundaries and celebrates individuality.

Bachfest Leipzig – June 08-13, 2023:

Classical music fans will be swept away by the timeless compositions of Johann Sebastian Bach at the internationally renowned Bachfest Leipzig. Held in various historic venues throughout the city, this festival pays homage to Leipzig’s most famous composer with a series of concerts, recitals, and lectures. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Baroque music and witness the legacy of Bach come alive.

To reduce the environmental footprint of the festival, the Bach Archive is helping fund the plantation of a forest on the edge of a former opencast lignite mine just south of Leipzig, named the ‘Bach Forest’. In just two years over six 6 hectares of forest consisting of 33,000+ trees have been planted on the west bank of Lake Störmthal.  Over 126,000 trees and more than 3,600 shrubs are to be planted in the coming years. The forest will bind 290 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year.

Classic Open Air Leipzig – 30^th June-01 July:

Visitors to Leipzig can delight in the harmonious melodies of classical music against the backdrop of Leipzig’s historic landmarks at the Classic Open Air Leipzig festival. The world-famous symphony orchestra, the Gewandhaus Orchestra, thanks their audience at the end of another Gewandhaus season with two open-air concerts on consecutive evenings. Set in the enchanting Rosental Park, this open-air event invites audiences to revel in the beauty of symphony orchestras, opera arias, and solo performances. The combination of exquisite music and stunning surroundings creates an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages.

The Leipzig Jazz Days – October 14-21, 2023:

Experience the captivating sounds of jazz at the Leipzig Jazz Days, one of the oldest and most prestigious jazz festivals in Germany. Showcasing a diverse line-up of renowned international and local jazz artists, this festival transforms Leipzig into a hub of rhythmic melodies and improvisation. From intimate club performances to large-scale concerts, the festival offers something for every jazz enthusiast.

Euro-Scene Leipzig – November 2023:

Indulge in the world of contemporary European theatre and dance at Euro-Scene Leipzig. This festival brings together innovative and thought-provoking performances from across Europe, presenting a diverse range of artistic expressions. With its focus on cross-cultural dialogue and experimental productions, Euro-Scene Leipzig pushes the boundaries of traditional performing arts.

Leipzig’s unique festivals showcase the city’s commitment to artistic expression and cultural diversity. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a lover of the arts, or simply seeking a memorable experience, these festivals offer a captivating journey through Leipzig’s vibrant cultural landscape.

For more information and updates on this year’s festivals, please visit: www.leipzig.travel.