Tomorrow marks the long-awaited start of the 45th Jazzfestival Saalfelden – and just in time for the festival, the winners of the traditional shop window competition have been announced. A total of 19 shops and local businesses in Saalfelden took part, transforming their displays into small works of art with extraordinary commitment, creativity, and attention to detail. Inspired by the festival, the participants let their imagination run free and created shop windows that reflect the unique atmosphere of the Jazzfestival. In doing so, they not only contributed to the festive spirit but also added colorful highlights to the townscape, delighting locals and visitors alike. On Wednesday, 20 August 2025, the jury – consisting of representatives of the Club of Friends of Jazzfestival Saalfelden, Saalfelden City Marketing, and Saalfelden Leogang Touristik – met to select the winners. After thorough deliberation and evaluation of all participating shop windows, the winners were chosen: 1st Place: Resis kleine Freuden (Resi’s Little Joys) With an incredible love for detail, they brought the theme to life in an impressive way. Every element radiates care, creativity, and a deep passion that has gone into this work. 2nd Place: Saalachtaler Farmers’ Shop Here, regionality and culture merged in a special way. The combination of local products with the unmistakable elements of the Jazzfestival – from instruments to accessories – created a harmonious overall artwork. 3rd Place: Optics Studio Claudia Trixl They impressed not only with jazzy design elements but also with an extraordinary highlight: the studio presented a painting by local artist Peter Tschulnigg – co-founder of Jazzfestival Saalfelden – thus building a bridge to the history of the festival. “The diversity and creativity of the decorated shop windows were once again impressive this year. Each one contributed to the festival atmosphere in its very own way,” said Robert Groger, Chairman of the Club of Friends of Jazzfestival Saalfelden. “It was not an easy decision, as all participants showed great commitment.” About Jazzfestival Saalfelden: From 21 to 24 August 2025, Saalfelden will once again become the pulsating center of the international jazz scene. At this renowned festival, established greats and exciting newcomers come together to explore the boundaries of the genre and captivate audiences with unique sounds. With more than 60 concerts on various stages in and around Saalfelden, visitors can expect a diverse program that attracts jazz fans from all over the world. Looking Ahead to 2026: The next Jazzfestival Saalfelden will take place from 20 to 23 August 2026. The shop window competition will once again be an integral part of the festival. All businesses in Saalfelden are warmly invited to participate next year and enrich the townscape with creative ideas.
The mountain bike season in Saalfelden Leogang and the Epic Bikepark Leogang is nowhere near winding down. You can keep chasing trails on the Asitz in Leogang right up until 9 November. And the late summer/early fall line-up is stacked – think big events like the legendary BIKE Festival, plus not one but two brand-new tracks you can ride for the very first time: T-Line and Back to the Roots are now officially open. The Epic Bikepark Leogang runs from 9 May to 9 November – that’s 185 days of pure MTB goodness, meaning it’s actually open more days a year than it’s closed. And here’s the kicker: even after the park closes in November, some single tracks outside the park stay open. You’ll just have to pedal (or e-pedal) to the trailheads yourself. New Line and Trail open: Back to the Roots and T-Line The new additions are worth the trip. The T-Line, at 1.3 kilometers, is packed with rollers, sharkfins, and a massive 7-meter table, flowing between Vali’s Hölle and Bongo Bongo before dropping down to the Asitzbahn. The trail branches off the Speedster DH track in the lower quarter, carries a red rating, and takes inspiration from the freeride-oriented Flying Gangster – but with an even beefier build. For those who prefer their trails raw, Back to the Roots offers 1.3 kilometers of pure, hand-built, old-school freeride. Created entirely without heavy machinery, this black single track serves up tight natural lines, steep sections, playful jumps, and a rock drop finale. It peels off from the Steinberg Line by Fox and merges into Hangman II for the ride back to the valley. Both tracks are open now and ready to be shredded. BIKE Festival Saalfelden Leogang A firm fixture in the mountain bike calendar, the BIKE Festival rolls into Saalfelden Leogang from 12 to 14 September. With free entry, it’s the place to check out the hottest gear for the 2026 season – from bikes and parts to protection, apparel, and more. But it’s not just about drooling over the latest kit: the festival serves up workshops, ride-outs, skill sessions, and shows for the 15,000 visitors expected. David Trummer, former Austrian downhill champion and silver medalist at the World Championships in Leogang, will lead a ride-out on the Speedster World Cup track, while slopestyle pro Lukas Knopf will take the experts to Hot Shots Fired by GoPro. Young riders can get a taste of competition at the VPACE Kids Cup and the Scott Junior Trophy Pumptrack, while female riders can sharpen their downhill skills with Marlena Neißl. Elias Schwärzler, founder of the Senders Academy, will host a Gambler Ride Out, giving participants the chance to test the brand-new Scott Gambler for the first time. All lines and trails in the bike park will stay open during the festival weekend, and festival visitors can enjoy 10% off all bike park day tickets — the perfect excuse to go all in. auner Austrian Gravity Series, Ladies Shred Events and more The action doesn’t stop there. On 11 October, the Epic Bikepark Leogang will host the final round of the auner Austrian Gravity Series, a popular race series that’s especially geared towards young and amateur riders, offering a pro-level setup with easy access. Female riders can keep pushing their limits at the Ladies Shred events in August, September, and October. On 29 August, the local community and bike park partners will come together for the final Clean the Trail Day of the season, a collective effort to give the trails some love. Everyone who pitches in has the chance to win a 2026 Gravity Card in the prize draw. 300-Kilometer Road Challenge at the Rush300 And for those who prefer skinny tires to knobby ones, Saalfelden Leogang has something special, too: the Rush300 team event on 21 September. It’s a 300-kilometer, 3,000-meter climbing challenge through Salzburg and Berchtesgaden National Park, starting and finishing at Ritzensee in Saalfelden.
From September 12 to 14, 2025, the Epic Bikepark Leogang will once again become the meeting place for mountain bike enthusiasts. For the sixth time, the BIKE Festival Saalfelden Leogang invites riders to a weekend packed with test opportunities, skills training, riding fun, and festival flair for the entire family. Whether beginner, young talent, or pro – the BIKE Festival offers the perfect setting for everyone looking to take their mountain bike skills to the next level. The bike season in Saalfelden Leogang gets an autumn extension: for the sixth time, the renowned BIKE Festival stops at the Epic Bikepark Leogang. As always, the proven mix of the latest products, workshops, and community get-togethers is part of the program. On September 12, the popular Expo Area at the Asitzbahn valley station will open its doors again. With free admission, numerous top brands will present their highlights for the upcoming 2026 season. Visitors can not only check out the equipment but also test it – directly on the large practice area or on the bike park trails. All lines and trails in the Epic Bikepark Leogang will remain fully open throughout the weekend. As a special festival offer, visitors will receive a 10% discount on all bike park day tickets – an extra incentive to make the most of everything on offer. Ride with the Pros – with the stars of the scene A central highlight in 2025 will again be the diverse bike workshops with top-class coaches. Among them: Stefan Schlie, e-bike pioneer and trial pro, offering special e-MTB riding technique sessions; Lukas Knopf, slopestyle star and YouTube personality, giving insights on the “Hot Shots fired by GoPro” line; and David Trummer, Downhill World Cup rider and Vice World Champion in Leogang, analyzing the World Cup track in his workshop. Joost Wichman, former 4X World Champion, will share tips and tricks on the pump track, while Elias Schwärzler, founder of the first holistic MTB academy in the German-speaking region and talent factory “Senders Academy,” will host a Gambler Ride Out where participants can be among the first to try the new Scott Gambler. Marlena Neißl will lead an exclusive “Women’s Downhill Session” for female riders. Timo Pritzel, dirt jump legend and yoga instructor, combines biking and mindfulness in his sessions. Thomas Klausner, a pro in bike trials, will wow the crowds with spectacular show performances. Wrench, learn, understand – tech workshops for everyone Participants can also look forward to technical workshops, where they can learn skills such as repairing suspension forks or derailleurs – along with in-depth advice from experienced guides and mechanics. Action for young riders Young bike fans will also get their money’s worth: the VPACE Kids Cup and the SCOTT Junior Trophy Pumptrack will give them a taste of racing and their first competition experience – accompanied by a child-friendly supporting program and age-appropriate courses. Party, community, and festival vibes In addition to the sporting highlights, there’s plenty of festival atmosphere: during signing sessions and meet-and-greets with the stars, fans can get up close with their idols, grab autographs, and make personal memories. On Saturday evening, the big festival party with DJ Max Teaser at the B3 Bar will provide the perfect way to wrap up the day. The BIKE Festival Saalfelden Leogang 2025 brings together everything a mountain bike fan could wish for: cutting-edge technology, sporting variety, personal encounters, and an unparalleled nature experience.
The countdown is on: in just 11 days, on August 21, the Jazzfestival Saalfelden 2025 will begin – a place where musical boundaries blur, and fans of contemporary music and sonic innovation gather in the alpine surroundings of Saalfelden Leogang. For four days, the town at the mountain range “Steinernes Meer” will transform for the 45th time into a vibrant hub for contemporary jazz, improvisation, and sonic art. We’re getting you in the mood with two exclusive artist interviews. In the spotlight: Danish guitarist and composer Teis Semey, and the Austrian ensemble Chez Fria, with Ferdinand Rauchmann and Paul Widauer offering insights into their creative process. Artistic Perspectives: Teis Semey and Chez Fria in Interview Teis Semey Guitarist and composer Teis Semey is no stranger to Saalfelden and will be performing several times during this year’s festival – including on the mainstage at the Congress with his Amsterdam-based large ensemble EN MASSE! Merging free jazz, punk riffs, and atmospheric density, the group strikes an impressive balance between chaos and tenderness, raw energy and deep concentration. At the bookbindery Fuchs, Semey teams up with Estonian pianist Kirke Karja. As part of the trio Raw Fish, he explores raw, spontaneous compositions. He’ll also close out the festival with an energetic Late Night Session featuring, among others, Christian Lillinger and Ingebrigt Håker Flaten – delivering improvisation that is free, direct, and close to the audience. In the interview, Semey speaks about music as an artistic expression rooted in community, empathy, and collective energy. Interview: LINK Chez Fria Taking a completely different approach is the five-piece ensemble Chez Fria. Represented in the interview by Ferdinand Rauchmann and Paul Widauer, they reflect on their artistic identity that navigates the space between structure and freedom. Their current project “Die Kunst dem Fuge” (= The Art of him Fugue) merges parallel musical worlds: Hildegard von Bingen, Bach, Webern, and contemporary club music. With synthesizer, trumpet, bass, recorder, and drums, they create an irreverent sonic fabric that balances humor, modernity, and musical reference traditions with precision. Their work is defined by interplay and a conscious focus on timbre – making Chez Fria an exciting representative of Austria’s young jazz scene. Interview: LINK New Value Creation Study: Jazz as a Regional Economic Driver That the Jazzfestival Saalfelden plays an important role not only musically but also economically is confirmed by the latest value creation study from the Salzburg Chamber of Commerce (WKS). According to the study, the festival draws around 17,000 visitors annually, generating significant economic impact in the region. The report highlights positive effects on the hospitality, gastronomy, and retail sectors, as well as enhanced image benefits for Saalfelden as a cultural and tourism destination. Behind the Beats – Guided Tour for Children & Teens A special program is designed for the youngest festival fans: the free guided tour Behind the Beats offers children and teens an exciting behind-the-scenes look at the festival on Saturday, August 23 at 12:00 (noon). How does a concert work from a technical perspective? Who ensures that sound and lighting come together perfectly at just the right moment? The meeting point is the Saalfelden Tourism Office – no registration required.
Road cycling highlight in SalzburgerLand September 21, 2025 – a must for all long-distance lovers. RUSH300 is about more than just distance. It’s about togetherness. The thrill at the starting line, the buzz in your legs, the mental strength on the final climb – and that unmatched feeling of crossing the finish line together. On this day, Saalfelden Leogang becomes the stage for one of Austria’s most spectacular cycling adventures. RUSH300 brings together ambitious road cyclists and sports enthusiasts from various disciplines – united in a challenge that gets under your skin. 300 kilometers and roughly 3,000 meters of climbing An epic loop through SalzburgerLand – past emerald lakes and along scenic roads. The grand finale: the Hirschbichl, a final climb with real character. Those who know it, know: it hurts – but a culinary surprise awaits at the top. Guided groups and strong support You don’t ride the RUSH300 alone: it’s all about the team – with guided groups matched to your pace. The pacing groups (24–26 km/h, 27–29 km/h, 30–32 km/h) are led by experienced guides – including well-known personalities like former biathlete Julian Eberhard and RAAM winner Philipp Kaider, who knows how to push through mental lows and master epic distances. There’s also a Women’s Only Group for female riders. “Ride your story” – that’s the motto. No race. No pressure. Just maximum emotion and ambition. “RUSH300 is a powerful example of how sport, nature, and community can be brought together at the highest level. Events like this not only strengthen our tourism positioning, but also offer fresh momentum for a modern sports culture in SalzburgerLand.” – Stefan Schnöll, Deputy Governor of Salzburg Support like in the pro peloton Four premium feed zones, mechanical service, support vehicles, and a dedicated media team – everything’s in place so you can focus on one thing: ride, push through, enjoy. Saalfelden Leogang – the laid-back base for big dreams. Already world-renowned for MTB, Saalfelden Leogang shows its road cycling side at RUSH300: The region impresses with a growing cycling community, stunning natural scenery, and a strong commitment to high-quality sporting events. Ritzensee sets the scene for the start and finish – and in the evening, everyone who made it celebrates the big day together. “With RUSH300, we’re sending a clear message that Saalfelden Leogang is a year-round destination for active experiences – with a focus on quality, community, and unforgettable moments. This event brings together people who share a passion for performance, connection, and the outdoors.” – Marco Pointner, CEO of Saalfelden Leogang Touristik GmbH Long-distance for everyone – with character and community Whether you're tackling 300 kilometers for the first time or want to test your power over an epic distance – RUSH300 is the perfect mix of athletic challenge, mental flow, and seamless organization. “To me, RUSH300 captures the essence of road cycling: starting together, finishing together, and creating personal stories that stay with you. It’s not about time or rankings, but about the experience, the real connections, that one day that changes you.” – Hans-Peter Kreidl, organizer of RUSHdieSERIE and founder of skitourenwinter.com
According to a recent value creation study by the Salzburg Chamber of Commerce (WKS = Wirtschaftskammer Salzburg), the Jazzfestival Saalfelden delivers significant economic benefits and serves as a major driver for the region. From 21 to 24 August 2025, the 45th edition of the Jazzfestival Saalfelden will take place, featuring a total of 184 musicians from 26 countries. Last year, the four-day festival attracted around 17,000 enthusiastic visitors - many attending multiple events - across its wide variety of venues. “The artistic quality of the Jazzfestival is well known. What had remained unclear until now was the festival’s specific economic impact on the region and Austria as a whole,” says Marco Pointner, festival organiser and tourism director of Saalfelden. Thanks to a recent value creation analysis by the Salzburg Chamber of Commerce based on the 2024 edition, there are now reliable figures highlighting the festival's economic contribution: • € 5.3 million in value creation across Austria, including € 4.2 million in Salzburg • 75 full-time jobs in Austria, of which 69 are based in Salzburg • € 2 million in taxes and levies The calculations were based on visitor spending during the 2024 festival, gathered through online surveys and mobile data analysis. On average, guests spent € 208 per day (including concert tickets). “With total expenditures amounting to around € 6.2 million, the festival not only creates beautiful sounds on stage but also rings the tills of businesses across multiple sectors,” says Christoph Fuchs, Head of Economic and Location Policy at WKS, pleased by the economic boost for the region. “The largest share of daily spending - € 134 - went to accommodation and gastronomy. Visitors also found time to shop, spending an average of € 33 per day.” “These figures make it clear: the Jazzfestival is not only a cultural beacon, but also a powerful economic engine for the region and beyond. Public and private investments in the event clearly pay off from an economic perspective,” Pointner continues. “Tax revenues including social contributions alone amount to € 2 million annually!” Daniela Neumayer, the festival’s production manager, adds: “An event of this scale wouldn’t be possible without a dedicated team. The study also shows that the festival secures or creates 75 jobs directly or indirectly - many of them right here in the Saalfelden region.” Festival Guests from All Across Europe The Jazzfestival Saalfelden is not only popular with locals from Salzburg, who account for the largest share of visitors at around 34%. They are followed by guests from Vienna (11%) and neighbouring Bavaria (10%). The festival also attracts visitors from Hungary, Norway, Italy, the Czech Republic, and Slovenia. More than half of the attendees use tourist accommodation - on average for five days. Most bookings are made for two people and four nights. A remarkable 82% of guests attended the festival due to the high artistic quality of the concerts. The unique atmosphere was also a key reason, cited by nearly half of respondents. The festival also serves as a meeting point for friends and acquaintances - 41% mentioned this as a motivation for their visit. Additionally, 11% attended the festival as part of a holiday and 6% came at the invitation of others. “In Salzburg, culture and the economy often go hand in hand, benefiting both,” says Fuchs. “Over 90% of the employment effects and nearly 80% of the value creation remain in the province of Salzburg. The Jazzfestival Saalfelden is not just a cultural highlight - it’s an economic one too!” Image (from left to right): Marco Pointner, organiser of the Jazzfestival Saalfelden; Daniela Neumayer, production manager of the Jazzfestival Saalfelden; Vanessa Kahn and Christoph Fuchs from Salzburg Chamber of Commerce (WKS) Photo credit: WKS/Kolarik
A trip to the idyllic Schwarzleo Valley in Saalfelden Leogang is like a journey through time – deep into the lives and work of the miners of the past. At the Leogang Show Mine, thousands of years of mining history come to life for visitors of all ages. Here, where the Celts were already extracting valuable ores like silver, copper, cobalt, and mercury over 3,200 years ago, visitors can now enjoy a fascinating underground adventure – and much more above ground, too. Whether in sunshine or rain, the Leogang Show Mine offers exciting guided tours through faithfully preserved tunnels. Sometimes ducking, sometimes walking in single file, equipped with helmets and headlamps, visitors venture through the underground maze – a memorable experience that lets everyday life fade away for a while. A Family-Friendly World of Discovery with Fun, Play & Culinary Delights It's not just the underground tour that excites: Right by the Unterberghaus – the starting point for all tours – a large adventure playground with an old mining train and a specially created children's tunnel invites kids to play and explore. A dedicated children's program ensures fun-filled hours for young explorers. Every Thursday in July and August, a special children’s tour takes place at the Leogang Show Mine: Leo’s Mining Adventure. With a certificate, a miner's meal, and small treasures from the tunnels, the visit becomes an unforgettable adventure. If you're looking to refuel afterwards, the Unterberghaus – the former miners’ house – offers regional culinary treats and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing break surrounded by nature. “Accessible Leogang Show Mine” Using state-of-the-art laser technology, the Barbara Tunnel was digitally scanned in 2021, creating a fascinating 3D experience. Now, you can embark on a virtual tour of the Leogang Show Mine and follow in the footsteps of the miners from the comfort of your home. The interactive online tour can be accessed at: www.schaubergwerk-leogang.com Guided Tours & Opening Hours May to October: Show Mine: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM In good weather: guided tours at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM Unterberghaus / Miners’ Tavern: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays Tour Duration: approx. 1 hour May to October: 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM In bad weather: ongoing tours every 30–60 minutes between 11:00 AM and 3:30 PM Group tours: available by prior arrangement Reservation Required Book your tickets easily online or by phone: +43 (0)6583 8223 30 or +43 (0)664 3375852 Prices Adults: €18.00 Children (up to 15 years): €10.50 (Additional €7.00 for Leo's Mining Adventure) Please note: For safety reasons, children must be at least 5 years old to participate in the guided underground tours. More Information: www.schaubergwerk-leogang.com
From July 11 to September 5, 2025, ALM:KULTUR will host unique art and culture events every Friday at 1:00 PM (with the exception of August 22 – that weekend the legendary Saalfelden Jazzfestival will fill the region with music). The surrounding alpine huts become meeting points for culture enthusiasts, music lovers, and curious explorers. Concerts and workshops offer the opportunity to experience the connection between nature, tradition, and hospitality up close. Here’s what visitors can look forward to this year: Concert at the Peter-Wiechenthaler Hut: "Kaŝita Kanto" July 11, 2025, 1:00 PM If you’re looking for melancholy and depth mixed with a certain lightness, the concert by the German-speaking singer-songwriter duo Kaŝita Kanto is just right. Rooted in Europe and inspired by their second home India, they weave their personal experiences into lyrics that bring them closer to themselves and the world. Their latest album "Zwischen den Welten" (Between Worlds) lives up to its name. Sensitive guitar melodies paired with powerful vocals immerse listeners in a soundscape that moves between longing and new beginnings, groundedness and wanderlust – honest and relatable. Percussion Workshop with Jürgen Stummer at the Seealm July 18, 2025, 1:00 PM Beats, mountains – and beats again! This drum workshop takes place in the unique setting of the Grießner High Moor. Together with Jürgen Stummer, participants will experience the magic of rhythm and spontaneity. Everyone is welcome – whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced percussion enthusiast. Drums are provided – just bring your joy and enthusiasm! Concert at the Lindlalm: "Tschentig" July 25, 2025, 1:00 PM Tschentig is a Tyrolean dialect word meaning "cool" or "laid-back". The Tyrolean band presents dialect pop using traditional instruments and two-part harmonies. Over the years, their musical style has continuously evolved, resulting in a varied and engaging concert experience. At the heart of their sound is the distinctive voice of Hanna Maizner, who won Austria’s “Die große Chance” in 2014 with the duo Harfonie. Tschentig is young, virtuosic, cool, unmistakable, and authentic. Painting Workshop with Cleo Ruisz at the Steinalm August 1, 2025, 1:00 PM Participants will have the opportunity to express their own interpretation of the breathtaking landscape on paper and canvas. There will be no shortage of inspiration at the Steinalm – a single glance at the mountain range is enough. Under expert guidance, detailed drawings can be created using fineliners. Watercolors will then be available to softly color the artworks. Participants can also experiment with natural materials on painting panels to capture the textures, colors, and shapes of the surroundings in a unique way. The workshop is open to all – adults and children, beginners and hobby artists alike. All materials are provided; just bring your creativity and joy for creating! Concert "Bluesbrauser" + Door Wreath Workshop at the Steinalm August 8, 2025, 1:00 PM The Bluesbrauser have created a genre of their own. This Pongau-based band blends witty, dialect lyrics full of self-irony with transparent, captivating blues. They tell stories and perform musical treats with heartfelt passion. A Bluesbrauser concert is one of a kind: vibrant, humorous, and thoroughly entertaining. And as if that weren’t enough, guests can also create their own door wreaths during the event. Christine Kilian will demonstrate various techniques and materials to design a wreath tailored to individual tastes. Concert at the Örgenbauernalm: "Zeitweis" August 15, 2025, 1:00 PM With self-written lyrics in Tyrolean dialect, this acoustic trio from the Tyrolean lowlands surprises with thoughtful folk, blues, and pop compositions. Zeitweis addresses everyday themes such as our perception of time, the alpine environment, working in the flow, tourism, growing old together – and much more. Concert at the Sinnlehenalm: "Strawanza" August 29, 2025, 1:00 PM Fresh arrangements of swing hits like "Tu vuo fa l'Americano", "Bei mir biste shein", and their own "Strawanza Swing", along with pop classics like "Careless Whisper", make this group of globetrotters truly swing. This band is a musical whirlwind – full of joy, charm, and the perfect balance between virtuosity and playfulness, creating an atmosphere that gets under your skin – and into your dancing feet. Concert at the Sinnlehenalm: "Safer Six" September 5, 2025, 1:00 PM When six gentlemen are nearing the combined age of 300 and have spent half of that time making music together without killing each other – those in eastern Austria have just one word: Oida! Safer Six is celebrating their 25th anniversary with a vocal party to remember. Expect Austrian cult classics by Falco, EAV, Fendrich, STS, Danzer, and von Goisern alongside new-generation hits by Bilderbuch, Josh, Edmund – plus Safer’s own catchy creations. Important Info: All events are free of charge and do not require prior registration. However, guests can reserve tables at the respective alpine huts. In case of bad weather, events will be cancelled by the day before at the latest, with announcements made via the website and social media channels. We look forward to welcoming you to ALM:KULTUR in Saalfelden Leogang and enjoying an unforgettable summer together!
Epic Bikepark Leogang kicks off the new season with a bold statement: more visibility, more confidence, and more space for female riders. With one of the most extensive women’s programs in the German-speaking MTB scene, the Saalfelden Leogang region is sending a clear message: mountain biking is for everyone. The theme for 2025? Ladies Shred – and it’s running straight through the whole season like a red thread. But that’s not all: the BIKE Festival Saalfelden Leogang, the final of the auner Austrian Gravity Series, and sustainability initiatives like the Clean the Trail Days are just a few more reasons why this region continues to lead the way as one of Europe’s most progressive MTB destinations. Ladies Shred – More Than Just a Trend Downhill, enduro, gravity – more and more women are shredding the trails with style, skills, and growing confidence. The Epic Bikepark Leogang is backing this movement with targeted offers for female riders who want to grow their skills and become part of a strong community. The Ladies Camps and Special Days focus on technique, mindset, and connection – and are perfect for both newcomers and advanced riders. Ladies Camps 2025 • 5–6 July: Bike & Photo Camp • 1–3 August: Mental Strength & Skill Camp • 15–17 August: Girls on Trails – Trail & Enduro Camp • 6–7 September & 25–26 October: Downhill Camps for Ladies Special Days • 13 July & 14 September: Mum’s Day • 27 July & 24 August: Ladies Wrenching Workshop • 10 August: Ladies Gravity Day • 16 August: Wifey Session Expect pro coaching from experienced female trainers, a supportive setting for personal growth – all in one of the most versatile bike parks in Europe. It’s not just about riding. It’s about building trust, sharing motivation, and celebrating progress. More Highlights – BIKE Festival, auner Austrian Gravity Series & Clean the Trail Days Beyond the women’s program, Saalfelden Leogang is loading up the 2025 calendar with major events that bring together sport, community, and sustainability. Kicking things off is the BIKE Festival Saalfelden Leogang from 12–14 September – one of the Alps’ top MTB festivals. Riders can check out the latest 2026 gear from countless brands and exhibitors. The Expo Area in the Epic Bikepark Leogang becomes a hub for test rides, guided tours with the BIKE Academy, tech workshops, live music, and delicious food – a true all-senses experience. On 11 October, the auner Austrian Gravity Series finals return to Leogang, bringing together Austria’s downhill elite. The series gives young talents and hungry racers the chance to test themselves on a track with full-on World Cup vibes – in an atmosphere that blends competition and community. Then there’s the Clean the Trail Days (13 June, 25 July, 29 August) – where locals, visitors, and partners team up to give the trails a cleanup. Ride up, split into teams, win prizes, and wrap up with a chill hangout. The more you show up, the better your chance at winning a Gravity Card for the 2026 season. New Trails & a Clear Stance – Saalfelden Leogang Lives MTB Culture The Epic Bikepark Leogang and the Saalfelden Leogang region are entering the 2025 season (9 May to 9 November) with new lines and strong values. Get ready for the new red T-LINE, the beginner-friendly blue GATEWAY connector as well as the raw black single track BACK TO THE ROOTS, and the techy, black diamond HANGOVER line – both named by the community. At the same time, the region continues to stand for inclusion, responsibility, and passion in modern MTB culture – values that shine through in its events, programs, and year-round dedication to the sport.
Over the past few weeks, we have sparked curiosity with selected program highlights – and now we are thrilled to present the full line-up for the 45th edition of the Jazzfestival Saalfelden: From August 21 to 24, a weekend full of surprises, experimentation, and inspiring encounters awaits you, featuring 184 artists from 26 nations. In addition to popular formats such as the already sold-out "We Hike Jazz" hike led by bassist Lukas Kranzelbinder, the experimental “Shortcuts”, and the free "City Tracks" throughout town, visitors can also look forward to more unique concert locations. A highlight remains the concert hike to the atmospheric 17th-century hermitage high above Schloss Lichtenberg – a magical place that captivated audiences last year and will again be an integral part of the festival in 2025. Just last month, Jazzfestival Saalfelden received the EJN Programming Award 2025 – a recognition of its artistic vision rooted in a commitment to experimentation and innovation. This award is not only praise for achievements so far but also a mandate to keep going – to continue exploring where music transcends boundaries, surprises, and opens new spaces. A central feature of the festival continues to be the support of new projects and constellations, many of which have their world premiere here. Pioneers of Improvised Music – Sonic Exploration on the Mainstage The sonic exploration on the Mainstage will be kicked off by the creative mind Leonhard Skorupa. Known for his projects Sketchbook Orchestra, AHL6, and the ensemble Kuhle Wampe – and celebrated as the “young rebel of Austrian jazz” (Ö1) – Skorupa brings an original commissioned work to its world premiere with an all-star line-up featuring Silke Eberhard, Kirke Karja, Robert Landfermann, and Leif Berger – a transnational sound project bridging Austria, Germany, and Estonia. Also embarking on unconventional paths is Kalle Kalima under the fitting title “Detour.” As part of his "Carte Blanche," the Finnish guitarist meets Argentinian keyboardist Leo Genovese and German drummer Christian Lillinger. This high-energy encounter unites three strong musical voices, moving between structure and spontaneity, composition and free form. Premieres, Perspectives, and Personalities Tomoki Sanders, child of jazz legend Pharoah Sanders, will give their eagerly anticipated European debut in Saalfelden. Drawing on African American and Japanese roots, Tomoki’s music blends elements of Great Black Music, electronic, and avant-garde. After years performing with Kassa Overall and various other projects, Tomoki now presents – for the first time live – music from an album announced for 2026, alongside an impressive band. Another special event marks the European premiere of an extraordinary quartet: Reid Anderson and Dave King (both founding members of The Bad Plus) meet Chris Potter and Craig Taborn. Their focus lies on the music of Keith Jarrett’s American Quartet – not as a nostalgic tribute, but as a forward-looking exploration of a musical state of mind. Patricia Brennan (vibraphone/marimba, Mexico/USA), one of today’s most distinctive voices, will perform in Saalfelden with her acclaimed septet project “Breaking Stretch” on the Mainstage, joined by musicians such as Jon Irabagon, Adam O’Farrill, and Dan Weiss. Brennan will also appear in a trio set as part of the Shortcuts series. Open Spaces – Encounters and Premieres The festival remains in 2025 a playground for musical encounters: Teis Semey meets Kirke Karja in an improvised session at the bookbindery Fuchs, and performs with his large-scale project “EN MASSE!” on the Mainstage. Laura Jurd not only presents her new album but also performs in two unusual duo formations – once at the hermitage with Jon Irabagon, and again in the forest with Nicolas Leirtrø. Many other constellations will celebrate premieres, exploring the vibrant space between improvisation and composition. Of course, Saalfelden also provides a stage for Austrian musicians: Chez Fria, “Nothing Causes Anything” by Vincent Pongracz, Lukas König in duo with Kasho Chualan, Alfred Vogel with the BEZAU BEATZ Orchestra of Good Hope, as well as in the trio “Eyes to the Sun” with Leo Genovese and Camila Nebbia. “Der kürzeste Weg” (eng.:The Shortest Way) at the Jazzfestival Saalfelden – Making Memory Audible The project “Der kürzeste Weg” (eng.: The Shortest Way) by Rosa Andraschek and Simon Nagy tells the story of Karl Reinthaler, a railway worker who resisted the Nazi regime. Five permanent audio stations in public spaces throughout Saalfelden recount his story, while a sixth station in the park Urslaupark features a composition by Lukas Kranzelbinder and Sun-Mi Hong – a sound memorial dedicated to ten other resistance fighters. During the festival, this piece will be performed live on three days by Kranzelbinder, Hong, and other bass-drum duos – exclusively at the bookbindery Fuchs. Audience Talk: Friday, August 22, 11:30 a.m., bookbindery Fuchs With Lukas Kranzelbinder, Rosa Andraschek, Simon Nagy Moderation: Hildegard Fraueneder
