Visual Sound Outdoor Festival

Three days that will transform Dortmund's Nordstadt district into a vibrant cosmos of sound: The visual sound outdoor festival 2026 invites all lovers of free jazz, improvised and experimental music to discover and enjoy an exciting program with a total of 16 concerts, live DJ sets and visual art installations.

Renowned artists from all over the world will perform on two open-air stages in the courtyard of the Depot cultural venue - in the middle of the unmistakable charm of the industrial architecture - and in the atmospheric Parzelle. Musicians from Dortmund, the region, the USA, Great Britain, Portugal, Denmark, Italy, Norway, the Netherlands and Brazil will be there to break down and expand the boundaries of improvised music.

A special highlight are the so-called "Magic Ensembles": spontaneous musical encounters between festival musicians. These concerts promise musical surprises and intense moments of exchange - a unique opportunity to experience fresh perspectives on free jazz and experimental soundscapes.

The festival not only attracts visitors with top-class music, but also with culinary delights: Syrian specialties and refreshing drinks provide for the physical well-being. Away from the stages, the Visual Sound Outdoor Festival also offers space for encounters, discussions and creative exchange - an invitation to all those who are curious about new musical horizons.

The detailed program and further information can be found on the festival website:

We look forward to welcoming you to the Depot cultural venue in Dortmund Nordstadt from August 13 to 15, 2026!