Hesse's largest music festival expects over 100,000 visitors in the city center
Darmstadt will once again transform into a giant festival stage at Pentecost: From May 21st to 24th, 2026, the Schlossgrabenfest will take place for the 26th time. Hesse's largest music festival will bring more than 60 bands, 12 DJs, three stages, a club area, and over 100 food stalls to the heart of Darmstadt's city center over four days. Around 100,000 visitors are expected again.
Under the motto "We celebrate music", the approximately 20,000 square meter festival grounds around the Residenzschloss are transformed into a meeting place for live music, encounters and festival atmosphere in the heart of the city.
International stars and well-known German acts
This year's musical highlights include synth-pop legends Alphaville with their world hits "Forever Young" and "Big in Japan", Jan Delay & Disko No. 1, rapper Ikkimel and rising star Zartmann.
The extensive program also includes Das Bo, HE/RO, IL CIVETTO, Tom Twers, Mal Élevé, Mika Noé, Carlo5, Bella, TRiPKiD or Jonny Mahoro.
The musical offerings range from rock, pop, indie and hip-hop to electro, reggae and ska, as well as techno, brass, punk and singer-songwriter music.
Festival starts with Alphaville
Thursday belongs to the 80s icons Alphaville. The band opens the festival with a roughly 90-minute concert on the Merck stage.
On Friday, Jan Delay will take to the main stage together with Disko No. 1. The musician will be supported by rap legend Das Bo. The concert is part of the "Best of 25+2 Years" tour.
Saturday will feature Zartmann, currently one of the most successful German pop acts. Also performing are the Darmstadt twins HE/RO.
To close out the festival on Sunday, Ikkimel will bring her mix of rap and techno to Darmstadt. The program will be complemented by numerous other bands, DJs, and regional acts.
Developing young talent remains an important component
Traditionally, the Schlossgrabenfest will once again place a strong emphasis on promoting regional music in 2026. Numerous bands from Darmstadt and southern Hesse will again have the opportunity to perform on the festival stages.
The "Sound Collective" format is specifically aimed at up-and-coming musicians from the region. Ten young acts perform together in a show on the Echo stage and receive professional coaching beforehand.
Family program and festival church service
In addition to the concerts, there will once again be an extensive supporting program. This includes the traditional festival church service, a poetry slam, and the free Volksbank children's program on Sunday.
New for 2026 is a dedicated children's concert with "Your Children's Band," including a foam party on the Echo stage. Admission to the children's events and the church service is free.
Wine village and food area
The Schlossgrabenfest also offers a wide range of culinary delights. More than 100 stalls with international specialties create a festive atmosphere. Additionally, the wine village on the market square invites visitors to relax and enjoy themselves free of charge. For the first time, there will also be a small live music program presented by the mobile KulturKiste (Culture Box).
Tickets and prices
A 4-day ticket costs €46.98. Day tickets range from €22.98 to €27.98 depending on the day of the event, plus advance booking fees.
Children aged 12 and under receive free admission. Admission is also free for people with disabilities and their companions.
Tickets and the full program are available online at:
Schlossgrabenfest Darmstadt
DARMSTADT – RED/PM/sgf)
Featured image: Castle Moat Festival. Photo: Björn Friedrich
