Schladming-Dachstein to Rock the Summer with Major Concert Series – A New Era for Austrian Tourism
SCHLADMING, AUSTRIA – In a move that’s sending ripples of excitement through the Austrian tourism industry, the Schladming-Dachstein region announced today a brand new summer concert series, set to launch in June 2026. The announcement, strategically timed alongside a Backstreet Boys concert that drew 250 media representatives, signals a bold ambition to extend the region’s appeal beyond the winter ski season. This is a breaking news development with significant SEO implications for travel and event searches.
From Ski Slopes to Summer Stages: A Vision Takes Shape
The “Summer Opening” will feature five headline acts over five days, from June 3rd to 7th, 2026. The lineup is impressively diverse, aiming to attract a broad audience: electronic music pioneers Scooter will kick things off, followed by German pop sensations, a German pop star, Austropop legend Rainhard Fendrich, and culminating in a spectacular performance by opera icon Placido Domingo. Organizers anticipate drawing an additional 50,000 visitors to the region.
“We want to open the summer season with timpani and trumpets, with five concerts for five different target groups,” explained Klaus Leutgeb, the event organizer. “And bring another 50,000 people here to start the summer.” The stage will be re-oriented to face the finish line, offering a unique concert experience, with Plácido Domingo’s performance planned as a seated event.
Beyond the Powder: The Economic Engine of Year-Round Tourism
This isn’t just about adding concerts; it’s about fundamentally reshaping the economic landscape of Schladming-Dachstein. The region currently employs 4,000 people directly, with a further 6,000 reliant on the tourism sector through supporting industries. The success of the ski opening events – which generated six months of positive media coverage – sparked the idea. As Andreas Keinprecht, chairman of the Schladming-Dachstein tourism association, playfully admitted, the concept was born over “a few gin and tonics.”
The shift towards year-round tourism is already showing results. Planai-Hochwurzen-Bahnen reports a 50/50 split between summer and winter overnight stays, and generates 20% of its cable car revenue during the warmer months. This allows them to retain 320 of their 420 employees year-round, providing crucial job security and stability. This is a prime example of how strategic tourism development can bolster local economies.
A Regional Boost: Styria Benefits from Schladming-Dachstein’s Ambition
The impact extends beyond Schladming-Dachstein itself. Styria’s Governor Mario Kunasek lauded the initiative, emphasizing its importance not just for the regional economy, but for the entire province. “The idea of thinking beyond the season is not only important for the regional economy, but for the whole of Styria,” he stated.
Ticket sales are scheduled to begin on December 8th, perfectly timed for the Christmas shopping season. This strategic timing aims to capitalize on the holiday spirit and generate early momentum for the event. The concerts will be sold as individual tickets, offering flexibility for attendees.
The Schladming-Dachstein region’s bold move to embrace a year-round tourism model, fueled by a dynamic concert series, is a compelling case study for destinations worldwide. It demonstrates the power of leveraging successful events – like the ski opening – to create new opportunities and secure a sustainable future for local communities. Keep an eye on archyde.com for further updates on this developing story and the latest in travel and tourism news.
