From June 6 to 9, 2025, the 32nd edition of the Wave-Gotik-Treffen will take place in Leipzig, Germany. Every goth who has the opportunity should make a pilgrimage to Leipzig at least once in their life — that’s well known — and chances are that after one visit, you'll be hooked and want to return every year. Aside from the inevitable dent in your wallet, we can't think of any reasons not to go. On the contrary, we’d like to give newcomers some extra information about what a trip to Leipzig entails and how best to prepare.
So far, 156 bands have confirmed (a number that will likely increase), and they will perform across various venues throughout the city — from the underground cellars of the Moritzbastei, the stunning neo-antique domed hall in the Volkspalast, to the Heidnisches Dorf (Pagan Village) with its medieval market, and larger concert halls. Every facet of dark culture will be represented: from electro-pop to gothic metal, from EBM to neofolk, from medieval music to post-punk. Of course, you’ll find plenty of familiar names, but the festival also offers endless opportunities for discovery. WGT always includes a more classical offering as well, featuring opera, choir, and chamber music. Boredom simply isn’t an option in Leipzig.
The residents of Leipzig have become accustomed to the thousands of goths who flood their city for four days every year. With an annual economic impact of 15 million euros — benefiting shops, hotels, and the hospitality sector — they certainly have no reason to complain. If you’re only now looking to book a hotel in Leipzig, you’re pretty late, but camping is also an option. Altogether, around 20,000 goths from all over the world come to Leipzig every year, making it the largest international festival in the scene.
We recommend traveling to Leipzig on Thursday, not just to avoid stress and ensure you're fully dressed up for all the events, but also because there are pre-festival events, performances, and parties taking place on the eve of the festival. A festival wristband also gives you unlimited access to public transportation, which is necessary as the concert venues are often spread out, and it often includes free access to museums and other cultural activities as well.
A ticket costs €170, which is quite affordable for a four-day festival. However, note that only full festival passes are available — there are no day tickets. You can order your tickets through the following link:
đ www.wave-gotik-treffen.de
