Salzburg Festival also celebrates opera, ballet and theater with 250,000 visitors in 2026

One of the world's most prestigious cultural events, the Salzburg Festival takes place every summer in Mozart's birthplace. Over 250,000 fans enjoy opera, music and drama in the Austrian city every year. As such, the Salzburg Festival has a long tradition.

History

The festival was founded in 1920 by figures such as Hugo von Hofmannsthal, Max Reinhardt and Richard Strauss in response to World War I, with the goal of cultural healing and celebration of Austrian heritage. The official opening was on August 22, 1920, with Hofmannsthal's Jedermann (Everyman) in front of the cathedral. Since then it has become a symbol of artistic excellence, with a strong focus on operas by Mozart (originating in Salzburg). Started as a cultural response to the aftermath of World War I, it has now grown into one of the largest cultural events in the world.

Program and activities

The festival lasts five to six weeks starting in late July and includes operas (especially Mozart and Strauss), concerts with top orchestras such as the Vienna Philharmonic, and drama with classics such as Jedermann (Everyman). There are also children's performances, recitals and premieres of new works. Around 220 events are held annually, with a mix of tradition and modernity. There is an estimate of around 250,000 visitors each summer that come to the city enjoy the many performances.

Locations

Most performances take place in the historic center, including the Große Festspielhaus, Felsenreitschule, Haus für Mozart and the Cathedral Square for Jedermann (Everyman). Other venues include the Abbey of St. Peter and Pernerinsel in Hallein.

Edition 2026

This summer, the Salzburg Festival will run from the end of July to the end of August. This year, thew festival also offers highlights with top names in opera, music and theater. Some major productions already announced are: Mozart's Die Zauberflöte and Strauss' Elektra, with conductors such as Christian Thielemann and stars such as Anna Netrebko, the Philharmonic Orchestra of Vienna plays under Yannick Nézet-Séguin, including the 20th Special Concert on August 30, and the traditional performances of Jedermann (Everyman )in front of the cathedral which continues to be a crowd pleaser.

(MP/©The Global Entertainment/Illustration: Free Walking Tour Salzburg via Unsplash)