Key Dates 2026: What Shapes Passau's Way of Life

The following formats are considered annual fixtures. Organizers continuously publish exact dates; check the linked official sites for confirmed dates and programs.

• Maidult 2026 (expected in spring): Traditional folk festival with beer gardens, rides, and regional cuisine; a lively insight into dialect, traditional costume, and club life.
• European Weeks Passau 2026 (expected early summer): Festival with concerts, literature, and discussion formats in the city's historic venues.
• Cathedral Organ Concerts St. Stephan 2026 (expected May–October): Regular organ matinees and special concerts; baroque sound culture in the city's sacred center.
• Herbstdult 2026 (expected late summer): Second major folk festival of the year; family program, customs, and sociability.
• Passau Christmas Market 2026 (expected late November–December): Advent atmosphere at the Cathedral Square with regional crafts and cuisine.

Language & Customs 2026: Experience Bavarian

Throughout 2026, folk festivals, markets, and cultural evenings provide insights into the local Central Bavarian dialect. At the Dult festivals, club events, and on selected stages, presenters and artists often perform in dialect. Those visiting Passau in 2026 can particularly experience this linguistic flavor at the following occasions:

• Moderation and music in dialect on the Dult stages (Maidult/Herbstdult, depending on the program).
• Readings and cabaret as part of the European Weeks or additional cultural series (depending on the annual program).

Note: Organizers will publish exact dates and program items for 2026 successively.

Music & Culture 2026: Baroque Backdrops, Contemporary Accents

The baroque old town will once again provide the stage for concerts, exhibitions, and open-air formats in 2026. The character of the three-river city shapes the experience: short distances, squares close to the rivers, and a relaxed, pleasure-oriented atmosphere.

• Cathedral Organ Hours (Season 2026): Matinees and evening concerts in St. Stephan's Cathedral; program and ticketing will be published before the season starts.
• Concerts and literature of the European Weeks 2026: Performances at historic venues, often in the old town and on hills with city views.
• City tours and special tours 2026: Themed routes on baroque, rivers, and old town flair; dates published by the tourist information office.

Markets & Festivals 2026: Enjoyment, Serenity, Community

Folk festivals and markets form the sociable core of the year in 2026 – with regional cuisine, craft offerings, and family-friendly programs.

• Maidult 2026: Spring kick-off with beer tents, rides, and daily programs.
• Herbstdult 2026: Late summer finale with traditional costume days and club performances.
• Christmas Market 2026: Advent market at the Cathedral Square with handicrafts, music, and cuisine.

The published safety and visitor notices of the city also apply in 2026; current information will follow via the official channels.

Planning 2026: How to Make Your Visit a Success

• Check dates: Exact dates and program booklets will be provided on the linked portals throughout 2026.
• Book early: During festival and Dult times, demand for accommodation in the old town and along the Danube/Inn increases.
• Take advantage of short distances: Many venues are within walking distance; the city and organizers will publish information on seasonal additional transport and road closures.

Official Sources & Further Information

1. City of Passau — Official Information on Events — Dates, notices, and service (accessed 2025-12-24)
2. Tourism Passau — Events & Service — Program overviews and tours (accessed 2025-12-24)
3. European Weeks Passau — Festival program and tickets 2026 (accessed 2025-12-24)
4. Diocese of Passau — St. Stephan's Cathedral — Information on organ concerts and church music 2026 (accessed 2025-12-24)