Trenck the Pandur before Waldmünchen
Historic open-air festival since 1950. In the 2026 season, performed for the 75th and final time in its current version.
A town defends itself – anno 1742
The true story behind the festival
In September 1742, Pandur Colonel Franziskus Freiherr von der Trenck marches through Eastern Bavaria with his feared warriors. The neighbouring town of Cham is plundered and burned to the ground. Waldmünchen faces the same fate.
But history takes an unexpected turn: Katharina Schwab, a young woman from Cham whom Trenck carries with him as spoils of war, wins the heart of the notorious Pandur. Her love transforms the wild warrior – and saves Waldmünchen. In exchange for 50 species ducats, the town is spared.
Trenck himself was a colourful figure: thrilling in his wildness, audacity and cruelty, yet also known for his unconditional loyalty to Empress Maria Theresa. A man between brutality and passion.
75 years of open-air theatre
Bavaria's most enduring post-war heritage play
Since 1950, Trenck has ridden against Waldmünchen – and more than half a million spectators have witnessed the spectacle since. Around 300 amateur performers bring the story to life on the open-air stage every year.
The Trenck Festival is the only heritage play created after the Second World War that has endured to this day. A piece of living Bavarian cultural history, just minutes from the hotel.
2026 is a special year: the story will be performed for the 75th time – and for the last time in the current version by Otto Peisl and Karl Jentsch. The director, as for the past 25 years, is Yvonne Brosch.
Dates & tickets 2026
Open-air stage Waldmünchen – covered and glazed
Performance season: July to August 2026 Start: 9:00 PM | Doors open: 7:30 PM
Dates:
- Wed, 08.07.2026 – Dress rehearsal (free admission, box office only)
- Sat, 11.07.2026 – Premiere with torchlight procession
- Sat, 18.07.2026 – Performance
- Sat, 25.07.2026 – Performance
- Thu, 30.07.2026 – Performance
- Sat, 01.08.2026 – Performance
- Thu, 06.08.2026 – Performance
- Sat, 08.08.2026 – Performance
- Sat, 15.08.2026 – Final performance
Admission: EUR 23 (children up to age 14: EUR 13) Groups of 20 or more: EUR 20 per person Tickets: Online at okticket.de or at the Waldmünchen tourist office
The open-air stage is covered and glazed on three sides – performances take place in any weather.
Family holiday with a cultural experience
Combine your stay at the Sonnenhotel Bayerischer Hof with an unforgettable evening of theatre. The open-air stage is just minutes from the hotel.