Cultural season in the Graz Region

In summer, the Graz Region becomes an open-air stage for culture. Set between UNESCO World Heritage landmarks, lush green parks, and distinctive locations in the surrounding countryside, a diverse programme unfolds – featuring concerts, theatre, exhibitions, and atmospheric encounters where art and culture meet under the open sky.

Whether classic sightseeing, open-air concerts or cultural events set in green surroundings – summer opens up a wealth of perspectives on art and culture. City and countryside blend seamlessly into a diverse cultural landscape.

Discover, enjoy, be amazed – in the heart of summer, at the heart of culture, here in the Graz Region.

Did you know you can enjoy films and stargazing at the same time at the open-air cinema on the Schlossberg?
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Sightseeing

Discover historical treasures

Graz captivates visitors as a UNESCO World Heritage city, with a historic old town where cultural history can be experienced at every step. From the Schlossberg, offering sweeping views over the iconic red rooftops, to the magnificent state rooms of Schloss Eggenberg, a remarkable ensemble unfolds – uniquely blending Baroque, Renaissance and modern influences. Hidden courtyards, narrow alleyways and refined architecture turn cultural sightseeing into a truly memorable experience. Those who take the time to explore will discover history in every detail – vibrant, diverse and deeply impressive.

La Strada

Street Art at Its Finest

When Graz turns upside down – dancing, laughing and marvelling – La Strada has arrived in the city. From 31 July to 8 August 2026, international street theatre meets contemporary circus arts, transforming the everyday into pure magic.

Open Air Cinema

Films Under the Open Sky

Film lovers can look forward to a diverse open-air cinema experience. From June to September, the open-air cinema on the Murinsel screens international film classics alongside recent Austrian productions. From June to August, the Lesliehof in the Joanneumsviertel also becomes an atmospheric setting for memorable outdoor film screenings.

Styrian Fairy Tale Summer

Culture to Delight Young Minds

Young culture lovers are well catered for too, with a colourful programme for the whole family. The Styrian Fairy Tale Summer 2026 invites families and fairy-tale fans to enjoy an interactive theatre experience right in the heart of Graz. From 22 July to 23 August 2026, the inner courtyard of the Priesterseminar Courtyard provides the setting for the production “Rapunzel – Newly Styled”.

This contemporary reimagining of the classic Grimm fairy tale combines imaginative staging with music and humour. Designed for children aged around three and up, it also delights everyone who enjoys joining in, thinking along and experiencing theatre together.

Concerts

Pure Music Enjoyment

Whether classical, jazz or pop – Graz’s concert scene captivates with its rich musical diversity. A special highlight is the open-air concert series Sommer am Berg, held at the Schlossbergbühne Kasematten. Perched high above the rooftops of the city, this unique venue offers an unforgettable concert experience in an exceptional atmosphere.

Cultural Excursion Destinations

Impressive, vibrant, inspiring

At Rein Abbey, the oldest Cistercian monastery in the world, visitors can experience centuries of spirituality, striking architecture and engaging guided tours through history.

Another highlight is the Austrian Open-Air Museum Stübing, where more than 100 authentically preserved farmhouses from all regions of Austria offer a fascinating journey through traditional ways of life.

Those who enjoy discovering contemporary art in the open air will find inspiration at the Austrian Sculpture Park. Set within a spacious park landscape, international artists present striking works in dialogue with nature.

And in Lipizzan stud farm Piber, visitors can experience the famous white Lipizzaner horses up close – a living cultural heritage of classical horsemanship in Styria.

Summer Theatre

Curtain up

On warm summer evenings, theatre in the Graz Region moves outdoors, creating unforgettable cultural moments in unique settings. Historic courtyards, charming town squares and atmospheric open-air stages become the backdrop for engaging performances filled with humour, emotion and dramatic flair.

Whether classical or contemporary, light-hearted or thought-provoking, summer theatre invites audiences to enjoy high-quality productions in an intimate, open-air atmosphere – where culture, place and summer evenings come together in a very special way.