Salzburger Festspiele, Hofstallgasse | © Günter Breitegger

Opening Celebrations for the Salzburg Festival

July 2025

Opening celebrations mark the traditional start of the summer festival season in Salzburg. With events free to the general public, locals and Salzburg visitors can look forward to a varied programme.

“Curtain up!” in the Salzburg historical district

It was the vision of Festival-founder Max Reinhardt to turn the city into one giant stage – a vision that Salzburg definitely lives up to when it comes time to mark the opening of the Festival season. Before the Old City becomes totally enthralled by the Festival performances themselves, the streets of Salzburg are first transformed into a big stage for the enjoyment of everyone. For three full days, you will discover music, dance, performances and festivities in practically every public space, on every street corner, in churches and in theaters.

A glimpse into the Festival happenings

The program is every bit as diverse as the event venues. The Festival opens its doors to traditional torchlight folk dances, to concerts, open rehearsals and public discussions with star performers. Guided tours, exhibitions and readings all lure you into the cultural world of the Festival City. Workshops give you an opportunity to get actively involved yourself. And even for younger visitors, there is no shortage of variety and kid-friendly entertainment.

Thanks to free admission, truly a festival for everyone

All events during the opening festivities are free to the general public. For selected events free tickets will be issued. You can order these online as PRINT@HOME tickets at www.salzburgerfestspiele.at. Any tickets that are remaining will be distributed immediately before the event in question. Plus, you can use your event ticket as a pass for city buses.