Yiddish Summer Festival in Weimar: Celebrate 25 years of culture!

Yiddish Summer Festival in Weimar: Celebrate 25 years of culture!

There's really something going on in Thuringia in summer! This takes place from July 12th to August 17th, 2025 Yiddish Summer Festival takes place in Weimar, and there is a lot to discover. The festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and attracts visitors with an impressive program consisting of 28 workshops, concerts, a film series and a late night cabaret. At the opening on July 12th you could enjoy the sounds of the YAM ensemble, which consists not only of German but also Turkish and Greek musicians.

The MDR reports that more than 50 events take place during the festival weeks, including concerts, lectures and guided tours. A special highlight will be the dance ball on August 9th. For music enthusiasts, there are numerous workshops that cover topics such as Ashkenaz, the Yiddish language and the connections between Jewish and Ottoman music. These workshops offer both beginner and advanced courses and are a great opportunity for anyone interested in Yiddish culture.

Diversity in Arnstadt and Bad Langensalza

But the bear doesn't just dance in Weimar. An interesting special exhibition about the successful writer Eugenie John, known as E. Marlitt, is running in Arnstadt until February 22, 2026. A wonderful opportunity to be transported into 19th century literature.

Nature lovers have the chance to go on a wilderness hike in the Hainich National Park with a ranger on August 16th and 17th in Bad Langensalza. Here you can walk about 10 kilometers a day through beautiful nature, and you can even spend the night in the open air!

Cultural highlights in Erfurt and Eisenach

In Erfurt there is the puppet theater “A Midsummer Night's Dream”, which is being performed in the courtyard of the Natural History Museum until August 30th - ideal for the whole family. The evening performances are at 8:30 p.m. and in August at 8 p.m.

For art lovers, the “Spirit Worlds” exhibition in the K12 gallery in Eisenach is a must. The artist Denise Reichenbach shows her abstract works there and even organized a live performance at the vernissage, which makes the event a special experience.

Folk festivals and musical events

The traditional folk festival in Saalfeld from July 12th to 20th promises rides and culinary delights - perfect for a family outing. The chamber concert of the South Thuringian Chamber Orchestra on July 19th in Bad Liebenstein will also attract many music lovers. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. and takes place in the Wandelhalle if it rains. Tickets start at 21.60 euros.

So there is no reason to stay at home! Whether culture, nature experiences or folk festivals – there is something for everyone in Thuringia. It's worth exploring the numerous events and enjoying the diversity of summer!