From June to September, the Shrines of Europe come alive with cultural energy. These open-air happenings draw large crowds — both locals and visitors. And it's no surprise: warm evenings, long days, and a holiday mood naturally encourage outdoor fun and entertainment.
The unique charm of outdoor events, open spaces, a touch of nature, or the backdrop of beautiful architecture all contribute to the growing popularity of this kind of leisure.
Did you know there's even a specific type of traveler now called the “concert tourist”? These are people who map out their summer not by geography, but by the tour dates and locations of their favorite artists and festivals. From city to city, stage to stage — they travel far and wide chasing the music they love.
For all the “concert tourists” out there — and anyone who simply loves music — we have a real treat: Openair Einsiedeln – a summer music festival in the heart of a Swiss monastery.
Held annually in the town of Einsiedeln, in the canton of Schwyz, just 34 km from Zurich, this year’s edition will take place on August 8–9.
What makes it so special? The concert stage is set directly in front of the monastery’s majestic baroque façade at Klosterplatz. For two August evenings, this historic site will transform into a vibrant music arena filled with rhythm, energy, and connection. Expect an eclectic mix — from indie and pop to heavier rock sounds. Openair Einsiedeln merges music with local culture and creates a sense of community. The program is curated to appeal to a wide variety of tastes.
For festivalgoers, this setting is anything but ordinary. It’s a rare blend of heritage, history, and traditional architecture paired with the atmosphere of a modern music event. It’s the perfect backdrop for a cultural and emotional experience.
From the early evening, Swiss and international artists will take over the stage. This year’s lineup includes:
Linda Elys – a rising Swiss artist whose single “House On Fire” topped streaming charts and national radio.
Ritschi – a respected singer-songwriter performing in Swiss-German dialect, known for his heartfelt lyrics.
Seraina Telli – a powerhouse of rock and metal vocals.
Jamaram – a high-energy band blending reggae, afrobeat, dub, and hip-hop with a message of peace and inclusivity.
Dom Sweden, Catalyst, Ida Jane, Catstrikes, and more — spanning genres from pop and blues to acoustic rock.
This year, the organizers have also thought of the youngest festivalgoers. A special children's concert will be held featuring well-known Swiss artist Andrew Bond, sure to delight kids and parents alike.
But Openair Einsiedeln isn’t just about music. It’s a full-on summer experience. Expect food trucks, local flavors, family-friendly fun, and chill-out zones where you can relax between shows.
Looking for a break from the sound? Head to the nearby Paracelsuspark, where you can unwind in the green, enjoy a bite to eat, and catch up with friends in a more peaceful setting.
This is a ticketed event, organized by the non-profit association Einsiedler Musikfest. The team is committed to keeping ticket prices affordable, and importantly — all proceeds are reinvested into developing future editions of the festival.
Openair Einsiedeln is a top pick for anyone who values not only great music, but also a unique atmosphere, inspiring encounters, and the creative fusion of sound and architectural space.
The festival’s blend of artistic vision and its exceptional location in the heart of European heritage makes it one-of-a-kind.
👉 Learn more and get your tickets here: https://openair-einsiedeln.ch/
