Culture Calendar: August 2025

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

From street performances in Bern’s Old Town to fine mixology in Vienna, August is packed with festivals that cater to every taste. Whether you’re into dance, design, vintage cars or gourmet food, this month’s highlights across Germany, Switzerland and Austria promise unforgettable experiences under the summer skies.

Buskerlingen at Münsterplatz, Buskers Bern 2024. Photo: ZVG Buskers Bern / Matthias Luggen

BUSKERS BERN, BERN (7 – 9 AUGUST)

Every August, Buskers Bern brings the lower Old Town to life, as around 150 artists from across the globe transform its streets into a massive stage. From music and dance to circus acts and storytelling, the festival offers a dazzling range of performances, all set against the magical backdrop of Bern’s historic centre. With a laid-back yet electric atmosphere, around 60,000 visitors gather each year to experience this one-of-a-kind celebration.

www.buskersbern.ch

Adrift – Arctic Ensemble – ACROBATIC CIRCUS SHOW (FIN). Photo: ZVG Buskers Bern / Matthias Luggen

ONARIS, BERN (10 – 12 AUGUST)

ONARIS returns to Bern, spotlighting the latest innovations in lifestyle, decor and accessories. With around 250 exhibitors, the fair brings together emerging design talents, established industry leaders and a professional audience. Visitors can discover fresh ideas, inspiring designs and curated culinary experiences, all in one vibrant showcase of creativity and craftsmanship.

www.ornaris.ch

ONARIS. Photo: ONARIS

MS DOCKVILLE FESTIVAL, HAMBURG (15 – 16 AUGUST)

Set against the backdrop of Hamburg’s harbour, MS Dockville blends music, art and urban flair into one unforgettable weekend. Over 50,000 visitors and 10,000 campers come each year when the festival transforms the city’s river island into a vibrant playground of sound and creativity. This year’s line-up includes standout performances by UK acts Lola Young, Raye, The Last Dinner Party and Peter Doherty, alongside a diverse mix of international bands.

www.msdockville.de

ANZ IM AUGUST, BERLIN (15 – 31 AUGUST)

Now in its 37th edition, Tanz im August presents 20 dance productions across nine venues, including HAU Hebbel am Ufer, Radialsystem and Haus der Berliner Festspiele. Audiences can look forward to world premieres, German debuts and international co-productions that explore movement, connection and the pressing questions of our time. The festival also features artist talks, workshops, podcasts and parties, for an engaging, communal experience.

www.tanzimaugust.de

Ruhrtriennale, À la carte, Dresden Frankfurt Dance Company. Photo: Dominik Mentzo

RUHRTRIENNALE, RUHR (21 AUGUST – 21 SEPTEMBER)

This contemporary art festival transforms the former industrial sites of the Ruhr area into vibrant cultural spaces. Featuring a wonderful mix of music, dance, theatre, installations and visual arts, it brings together diverse artistic disciplines in a striking post-industrial setting. The result is a bold fusion of art and architecture – creating a festival experience with a truly unique atmosphere.

www.ruhrtriennale.de

Gourmet Festival Düsseldorf. Photos: Gourmet Festivals

GOURMET FESTIVAL DÜSSELDORF, DÜSSELDORF (22 – 24 AUGUST)

Since its modest debut in 2010, Gourmet Festival Düsseldorf has evolved into one of Germany’s largest culinary open-air events. It draws over 200 exhibitors and more than 100,000 visitors each year to the iconic Königsallee. You can look forward to a wide range of upscale gastronomy, artisan producers and international delicacies, alongside an impressive selection of wines, Champagnes, gins, and more.

www.gourmetfestivals.de

Photo: Gourmet Festivals

VIENNA CLASSIC DAYS, VIENNA (23 – 24 AUGUST)

Classic car enthusiasts are in for a treat at this charmingly nostalgic Oldtimer Festival. The highlight is the Oldtimer Parade, where vintage vehicles of all makes, models and eras take a scenic tour around the Ring. Whether you are a passionate collector or a curious onlooker, the sight of lovingly maintained classics (many brought from afar by dedicated owners) makes this event well worth a visit.

www.viennaclassicdays.com

Vienna Classic Days. Photos: Vienna Classic Days/AutoSport.at

LIQUID MARKET COCKTAIL FESTIVAL, VIENNA (28 – 30 AUGUST)

The Liquid Market celebrates its 10th edition this year, bringing together over 150 bars and brands for three days dedicated to drinks and contemporary bar culture. As one of Austria’s largest festivals of its kind, it features a wide selection of cocktails, craft beers, wine, coffee and more – with all drinks included in the ticket price. Whether alcoholic or alcohol-free, the focus is on quality and the evolving art of mixology, making it a key event for professionals and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

www.liquidmarket.bar