Passau puts a lot of stock in its cultural offerings, as does the University. Our own culture café in the Nikolakloster regularly hosts concerts, readings, exhibitions and other events.
Student societies ensure a vibrant and diverse life on campus during term.
The city of Passau is the cultural heart of the Bavarian-Austrian-Czech border region. Museums and galleries, music and literature, theater and cabaret open up a wide range of possibilities.
Bavarian traditions are kept alive in Passau.
In spring, Maypole climbing is perhaps the most Bavarian competitive sport you can observe.
Twice a year, Passau hosts its own version of the Oktoberfest – 'Maidult' and 'Herbstdult' - with many thrilling rides, plenty of traditional Bavarian cuisine, and of course, the iconic beer tents. For enthusiasts, the relaxed 'Oide Dult' festival celebrates Bavarian cuisine, music and drinking culture, without the theme park rides, in the centre of town.
On top of that, there are various folk festivals and heritage events throughout the year, and naturally a Christmas market in December.
If you're new to Bavaria, you might be forgiven for occasionally thinking you stumbled into Hobbiton. Here are a few traditions / words you might find peculiar:
Passau is home to a number of art galleries, museums, and cultural institutions, such as the theatre / opera house (Landestheater Niederbayern) and the ScharfrichterHaus (headsman's home) – a restaurant, jazz venue and cabaret stage where many of Germany's most popular comedians start their careers. They are listed in our Welcome Guide. The city is also the home of some annual cultural events, such as the Europäische Wochen (European Weeks) and the Eulenspiegel comedy festival.
Naturally, Passau also has various movie theatres, including a large multiplex and several arthouse cinemas.
The Europa-Bücherei is a public library. For a small annual membership fee, you can use it to borrow books, CDs, DVDs and magazines.
There are various international societies in Passau. If you're interested in these, have a look at the list in the University's Welcome Guide for researchers and staff.
As a student, you're spoilt for choice among the many student societies on campus, while staff and researchers may be more interested in the city's cultural societies (which are, of course, open to students, too).
Your best bet is to chat to students and academics who have been in Passau for a few semesters and ask them for tips and inspiration! International academics can also ask the Welcome Centre for support.
