Event Details
Welcome to Sommerwerft Frankfurt 2026
From 24 July to 9 August 2026, the Weseler Werft on the eastern bank of the Main in Frankfurt becomes an open-air cultural space for 17 days. Sommerwerft celebrates its 25th anniversary as one of Germany's largest free open-air theatre festivals. Visitors can enjoy theatre, dance, music, performance, contemporary circus, poetry slam, film and workshops. Entry is free for all events; voluntary donations are welcome.
2026 Theme: "The Ocean Starts in Frankfurt"
The anniversary edition is shaped by the theme "The Ocean Starts in Frankfurt". The festival sees the River Main as the starting point of a global water journey, from its source all the way to the North Sea. This source-to-sea perspective weaves together intercultural exchange and ecological questions around water protection, migration and global responsibility. Around 200 artists and groups from across the world contribute to the programme, with many ensembles coming from the Global South.
Highlights
- 17 days of international theatre, dance, music and performance on the riverbank
- Multiple open-air stages and a theatre tent at Weseler Werft
- Blue Lab 2026 (29 July to 2 August): interactive space exploring democracy, respect and inclusion
- Evening performances in the sunset directly on the Main
- Children's and youth theatre and family-friendly workshops
- Poetry slam, concerts, art installations and contemporary circus
- Over 100,000 visitors each year
- Free entry to all events
Program & Opening Hours
The programme begins Monday to Friday from 5:00 PM and on Saturdays and Sundays from 3:00 PM. Several stages run simultaneously along the riverbank each day. The full and daily-updated programme is available in the festival's online calendar. Last-minute changes are possible; current information is available at the on-site info point and on the festival's social media channels.
Tickets & Donations
Sommerwerft is free of charge. Donation boxes are placed at the exits of each stage for those who wish to support the festival financially. Food and drinks are available from various stands on the grounds. The festival is organised by the non-profit association protagon e.V. and relies on volunteer support and public funding.
Visitor Tips
- Reach the festival by S-Bahn or tram: Ostbahnhof station (S-Bahn) or Battonstraße (tram).
- The grounds are located in the shadow of the European Central Bank on the eastern riverbank and are well signposted.
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear; the venue is on the riverbank.
- Bring a light jacket for evening performances.
- The info point on site provides the daily schedule and any last-minute updates.
- Arriving early secures the best spots in front of the stages.
