photosindarkness
last update 23 may : confirmed bands :
TEST DEPT. (UK) , ZOVIET FRANCE (UK) , DISILLUSION (D), EPADUN (CZ) ,
NOELIA SARRIS GOTHIC PIANO (ARG) , ESTAMPIE (D)
The Wave Gotik Treffen boasts an incredibly diverse and truly one-of-a-kind program. With over 170 bands and artists announced for this year, the festival promises a captivating experience across multiple venues throughout the city.
While the main festival area resides in the southern part of Leipzig, specifically the historic “agra” trade fair area, the allure of Wave Gotik Treffen extends beyond its boundaries. Live concerts take place on various stages, primarily indoor venues, including clubs, churches, and even the opera house. The musical spectrum presented spans a wide range, encompassing dark wave, gothic, post-punk, as well as dark electro, EBM, industrial, medieval, and classical genres.
Given the dynamic nature of the festival, the official program is typically unveiled shortly before the event itself. It is advisable to stay updated by frequently referring to this guide and visiting the official WGT website for the latest updates
Bands
The following 205 bands have been announced for WGT 2023 (selection, last updated May 17th):
FOR FULL PROGRAM LOOK HERE
Some interest activities :
In addition to the captivating live concerts, Wave Gotik Treffen offers a plethora of other engaging activities. Two medieval markets, located at Moritzbastei and Torhaus Dölitz, provide an immersive experience with stalls offering clothing, accessories, delectable food, and traditional arts and crafts. The ambiance is further enhanced by the enchanting presence of live medieval, folk, and classical music throughout the day, culminating in mesmerizing fire shows after dark. It’s worth noting that the medieval markets are open to everyone, not just festivalgoers, and if you possess a WGT wristband, you can enjoy their offerings without an entrance fee.
Moreover, Leipzig during WGT is a hub of cultural events beyond the official program. One standout occasion is the “Victorian Picnic,” held on Friday afternoon in the park. This iconic event allures enthusiasts of Victorian, steampunk, baroque, and neo/dark romantic styles to dress up and gather for a dazzling picnic or a leisurely stroll. The atmosphere is truly captivating as elegantly costumed individuals come together to create a visual spectacle. The “Victorian Picnic” is a must-attend affair for those seeking an extraordinary experience. Additional information about this event can be found on the corresponding Facebook event page.
WGT attendees also have the opportunity to explore Leipzig’s museums, exhibitions, and partake in guided tours. Many museums offer free admission to their exhibitions or provide special tours and lectures exclusively for WGT participants. It is highly recommended to visit one of these cultural institutions during the day before immersing yourself in the thrilling band performances at night. More details about participating museums, exhibitions, and guided tours will be available soon.
For those with an inclination toward classical music, opera, ballet, and theater, Leipzig offers a limited number of free tickets to WGT attendees for events at esteemed venues such as Opera Leipzig and Gewandhaus. These tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot and indulge in the grandeur of these artistic performances.
Wave Gotik Treffen truly goes beyond the confines of its official program, offering a myriad of fringe events and cultural experiences that enrich the festival’s atmosphere and leave attendees with unforgettable memories.
Nice to know
When it comes to Wave-Gotik-Treffen, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. The complete program and lineup, including exact times and locations, will be released shortly before the event. To stay updated, make sure to check the official WGT website regularly. Additionally, we’ll be diligently updating this guide to provide you with the latest information.
To make the most of your festival experience, we recommend using the WGT-Guide mobile app, available for both Android and iOS. This handy app will allow you to stay informed about all the events and venues, as well as create your own personalized festival schedule directly on your smartphone.
One thing to note about WGT is that everything happens simultaneously at different locations throughout the city. With so much going on, it’s important to acknowledge that it’s impossible to see everything. Moreover, many venues have limited capacity. Therefore, it’s wise to arrive early and allocate enough time to travel from one location to another (you can find additional transportation information in the “Getting there and getting around” section below). By planning ahead and managing your time effectively, you can make the most of your WGT experience.
