The stars are coming

The festivals and major events in Schaffhausen are not just gatherings; they are a vibrant expression of cherished traditions in the region.

Stars in Town

Every year, more than 50,000 guests from near and far gather on the Piazza Grande of German-speaking Switzerland in Schaffhausen's charming old town to enjoy spectacular concerts by Stars in Town on various stages. A diverse program is complemented by numerous side events, street food stands, and cozy bars, all set in a unique ambiance that invites you to linger. The event location in the heart of Schaffhausen is particularly artfully staged. During the festival, the historic houses of the picturesque old town are bathed in vibrant colors, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

«Stars in Town has evolved from a sailboat into a supertanker over the past few years.»

International Bach Festival

Since 1946, the city of Schaffhausen, in collaboration with the International Bach Society Schaffhausen, has hosted the Bach Festival every two years to unite people of diverse backgrounds through music. Spanning five days during Ascension, the festival features concerts, cantata services, and other events. Additionally, it offers a diverse supporting program in Schaffhausen’s picturesque old town.

Jazz Festival

The Schaffhausen Jazz Festival, founded in 1990, focuses on the national realm of "jazz and improvised music." Each year in May, around 10 ensembles perform over four days at the Kammgarn Cultural Center. The thematic focus on Swiss jazz allows for an in-depth exploration of the local scene and promotes cultural diversity. This concept sets it apart from many European jazz festivals that predominantly feature international artists. The festival provides a platform for musicians of various styles to showcase local developments and offers an overview of the current Swiss jazz scene.

Gourmet Festival

Top restaurants – from award-winning GaultMillau establishments to venues dedicated to traditional Swiss cuisine – craft specially created multi-course gourmet menus. The Schaffhausen Gourmet Festival promises a pure culinary delight, a sensory treat for the palate. To make your dining experience truly perfect, exquisite dishes are paired with a touch of warm hospitality and a harmonious setting. Whether in rural idylls, by the water’s edge, amidst untouched nature, or along historic alleys, the perfect backdrop becomes an essential ingredient.

Streetfood-Festival

Every summer, the Münsterplatz hosts the Street Food Festival over a weekend. Here, food enthusiasts and gourmets gather to embark on a flavorful journey through various cultures. The picturesque city of Schaffhausen transforms into a stage for delicious creations from around the globe. From exotic flavors to familiar tastes, visitors can look forward to a culinary adventure that offers something for everyone.

Film-Festival

Here’s something for all film enthusiasts – the ever-popular Schaffhausen Film Festival takes place annually at the Kammgarn. Look forward to five days of brilliant cinematic highlights, all showcased and enjoyed in the atmospheric setting of this former industrial site. Since 1996, the Schaffhausen Film Festival has been a staple of the region’s event calendar. The program features documentaries, children’s films, and several notable productions. All films, except children’s movies, are shown in their original language with German subtitles.

As temperatures rise, the open-air season kicks off in Schaffhausen. The Openair Hallau launches the season, attracting visitors from across the region with its charming lineup. Alongside local bands from Schaffhausen, German artists also contribute to creating a unique music festival experience.

Openair Hallau

Theaterfestival Stein am Rhein

Every August, the nordArt Theater Festival becomes a stage for renowned artists and promising newcomers, offering a diverse and enriching cultural experience. An evening at the nordArt Festival doesn’t begin when the lights dim and the performers step onto the five unique stages. It starts the moment you arrive in Stein am Rhein. It’s this distinctiveness that makes the nordArt Theater Festival truly special.

Jups Festival

Attention, kids! The weekend of the Jups Festival is all about you! Over two days, Schaffhausen offers a diverse cultural program for children and families. Since 2010, the Jups Festival has taken place every autumn, aiming to provide children with a weekend full of varied cultural activities. The program includes workshops (ticket required), open activities (no ticket needed), and larger events (ticket required), catering to different age groups.

Children are invited to paint frisbees, build kites, dance to rock 'n' roll, juggle, perform magic, and much more. Additionally, there are concerts, theater performances, and even a children’s disco on Saturday evening. Get ready for creative and exciting hours with your little ones at the Jups Festival!

Wild und Wein Festival

Attention, culinary enthusiasts! "Wild und Wein am Rhein" is a festival dedicated to autumnal delights and exceptional wines. Get ready for a gastronomic experience in Schaffhausen. With October comes not only a change in seasons but also a change in the kitchen. Alongside pumpkins, chestnuts, and plums, game meat is particularly emblematic of the autumn season.

At the heart of "Wild und Wein am Rhein" are game dishes, complemented by other seasonal delicacies. Six of Schaffhausen's top restaurants have teamed up for this culinary celebration, each crafting a unique four-course menu. Every course is paired with selected wines from the Blauburgunderland region. For those who prefer international wines, the guest country’s selections are also available for tasting.

All menus can be enjoyed with or without wine pairings, and a vegetarian option is offered as well. Find your favorite menu and look forward to an exquisite culinary experience!

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