Salzburger Festspiele, Hofstallgasse | © Günter Breitegger

Opening Celebrations for the Salzburg Festival

July 18-20, 2025

The “Festival Opening” is the atmospheric start to the Salzburg Festival. With free admission, visitors can experience music, theater and readings at special locations in Salzburg's old town. A festival for everyone - in the middle of the city!

“Curtain up!” in the Salzburg historical district

Every year in July, Salzburg becomes a stage for everyone: at the “Festival Opening”, the Salzburg Festival shows what culture can be - open, lively and accessible to all. Numerous concerts, theater performances, a torch dance, readings and discussion formats take place over three days with free admission. Artists perform at special venues - from the cathedral square to courtyards and concert halls.

Visitors can experience well-known works, discover new talents or simply enjoy the special atmosphere of the city. The program is aimed at adults, families and children. The festival combines tradition with new ideas and brings the festival atmosphere to where it belongs: among the people.

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 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.