Poolbar Festival 2027: Austria's Most Creative Summer Festival in Feldkirch
Ever partied in a former indoor swimming pool? That's the magic of the Poolbar Festival, an annual summer event in Feldkirch, Austria, that transforms the Altes Hallenbad and its surrounding Reichenfeld meadow into a vibrant cultural hub. Since 1994, it has blended niche music with pop, art installations, film, and design, attracting some 30,000 to 45,000 guests each summer.
Situated in the border triangle of Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, the festival is known for its open and welcoming atmosphere, drawing both international stars and emerging newcomers. Each year, the site is completely redesigned through a unique program that keeps the festival fresh and surprising.
Whether you're into indie rock, electronic beats, cabaret, or thought-provoking art, the Poolbar Festival has something for you. This guide covers the 2027 dates, the iconic venue, the kind of lineup you can expect, and practical tips for making the most of your visit.
When is Poolbar Festival 2027?
The next edition will run from July 7 to August 15, 2027, as confirmed on the official website and festivalfinder.eu. That's more than five weeks of continuous programming, with events happening almost every day, so you have plenty of flexibility when planning your trip.
The exact daily lineup and event schedule are usually announced a few months before the festival kicks off. For the most current program, check the official site or the festival app closer to July. Dates for 2027 were confirmed early, but it's always wise to double-check as the event approaches.
Where is Poolbar Festival Held?
The festival takes place at two adjacent sites in Feldkirch: the Altes Hallenbad, a former indoor swimming pool that now serves as the main concert and club area, and the Reichenfeldwiese, a large open-air meadow used for bigger shows and daytime events. This unusual setting gives the festival its distinctive character.
The Altes Hallenbad's empty pool becomes a unique sunken stage, creating an intimate yet industrial vibe. The open-air area hosts main acts and family-friendly picnics. Both venues are within walking distance of each other and the Feldkirch train station, making navigation easy.
History and Concept
Founded in 1994, the Poolbar Festival has grown from a small local event into one of Austria's most anticipated summer festivals. Organized by Poolbar Kultur gGmbH, it has always aimed to mix genres and art forms, earning as reputation for being a cultural hotspot in the region.
The festival philosophy is summed up by its slogan 'Nischen bis Pop' (from niche to pop), reflecting its eclectic programming. Every summer, the site is reinvented through the Poolbar Generator, a design program that brings in young creatives to shape the festival's look and atmosphere.
Music and Program
Musically, the festival spans a wide spectrum—from indie and rock to electronic and hip-hop. Past headliners include Babyshambles, White Lies, and Apparat. For 2027, German singer Kamrad has already been announced, with more acts to be revealed later. Keep an eye on the Poolbar Festival 2026 page for updates.
The festival is known for balancing international stars with local emerging talent, giving you a chance to discover your next favorite band before they blow up. Beyond the main stages, you'll find DJ sets, club nights, and intimate acoustic performances in the old pool.
Beyond Music: Art, Film, and More
Poolbar is not just about music. The program includes art installations, design exhibitions, film screenings, cabaret, and panel discussions. You might catch a literary reading in a dressing room or a design workshop in a lifeguard tower.
The festival also includes free events, such as the 'Raumfahrt' series that takes place at unusual venues across Vorarlberg after the main festival weeks, and the popular 'Color Hunt' cycling excursion. Check the program for free entry options to experience local culture without a ticket.
The Poolbar Generator
One of the most distinctive aspects of Poolbar is the Poolbar Generator, a spring workshop where up to 50 design students and recent graduates from around the world collaborate on projects in architecture, product design, graphic design, and digital media. The best proposals are then implemented at the summer festival, giving the site a fresh look every year.
This annual reinvention means that even repeat visitors always have something new to discover. The concepts have included everything from transforming the pool area with playful structures to installing interactive art pieces across the meadow.
Tickets for Poolbar Festival 2027
There are several ticket options: single-day tickets, weekly passes, and a full festival pass. Daily tickets have ranged from 25 to 50 euros in recent years, depending on the day and lineup. For the exact 2027 prices, you'll need to check the official ticketing page.
Tickets go on sale in advance, and some events may sell out, so it's wise to book early. You can also purchase vouchers for gifts. The official website is the safest place to buy, as resale sites often mark up prices.
Practical Information
Feldkirch is well-connected by train from major Austrian and Swiss cities. If you're driving, there are parking facilities nearby. For detailed directions and transport options, check our guide on how to get to the Poolbar Festival.
Food options range from fast snacks to vegetarian and vegan dishes, both inside the festival and in the neighboring city. East of the site, you'll find plenty of accommodation choices in Feldkirch and nearby towns, though it's recommended to book early for a summer event.
The festival claims to provide support for disabled attendees, but it's best to contact the organizers directly about specific needs. For families, there are family-friendly events like music picnics and workshops, but be sure to check the age policies for evening concerts.
Key Tips for Attendees
First, book your tickets and accommodation as soon as possible, especially for popular weekends. The festival can attract over 10,000 people a day on busy days. Second, don't just focus on headliners; explore the full program to discover hidden gems.
Keep an eye out for free events, such as panel discussions or open-air screenings, which give you a taste of the festival without a ticket. Finally, download the official Poolbar app to stay updated with schedule changes and to navigate the site easily.
Plan Your Visit
The Poolbar Festival 2027 promises another summer of eclectic music, innovative design, and a laid-back atmosphere in the unique setting of Feldkirch's old swimming pool. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-timer, there's something for everyone.
Start planning your trip by checking the official website for the latest lineup and ticket details, and remember to book early. If you're bringing the family, you might find our guide on visiting with kids helpful, and if you want to extend your trip, consider exploring other cultural events in the region.
Explore more Feldkirch guides
- How to Get to Poolbar Festival
- Poolbar Festival Food Guide
- Poolbar Festival Tickets 2026
- Poolbar Festival with Kids
- What to Wear to Poolbar Festival
- Where to Stay for Poolbar Festival
- Montforter Zwischentöne 2026
- Montforter Zwischentöne for First-Timers
- Montforter Zwischentöne Tickets
- How to Get to Montforter Zwischentöne
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Poolbar Festival 2027?
The festival runs from July 7 to August 15, 2027, in Feldkirch, Austria. The schedule is typically announced a few months before the start, so keep an eye on the official website for updates.
Where is the Poolbar Festival held?
It takes place at the Altes Hallenbad (old indoor pool) and the adjacent Reichenfeld meadow in Feldkirch. Both venues are in the city center and easily accessible on foot.
Who is headlining the Poolbar Festival 2027?
Kamrad has been announced as a main act for 2027. More acts will be revealed closer to the festival. Past headliners have included White Lies, Babyshambles, and Apparat.
How much are Poolbar Festival tickets?
For accurate pricing and ticket options, check the official website. You can buy single-day, weekly, or festival passes.
Is the Poolbar Festival family-friendly?
Yes, there are family-friendly events like music picnics and workshops during the day. Evening concerts may have age restrictions, so it's advisable to check the specific event details.
