Let us give our gratitude to God together as we look forward to 2022 and welcoming you to Oberammergau! In March of 2020, the Oberammergau Passion Play made the decision to postpone all performances in the best interest of the health and safety of all performers and theatre-goers. All tickets and arrangements for 2020 have been rescheduled for 2022. The tickets are valid for the same day of the week in the month you booked. Updated dates can now be found on your tour page.

Every 10 years, the little town of Oberammergau puts on its world famous Passion Play! This reenactment of the crucifixion of Christ has a 400 year old history within Germany – it began in 1633 in the face of the “Black Death” facing the region. The townspeople made a promise to God to put on this play every 10-years if they would be spared. Now in 2020, a new virus has affected this tradition, however we faithfully look forward to 2022. Since the tradition began the people within this town, are the Actors, Stage Hands, and Costume Designers. 206 Tours offers a variety of Pilgrimages that will coincide with your Oberammergau experience.

History:

In 1633, a solemn promise was made. The “Black Death” came to Oberammergau in 1632, and in one year, almost every family saw one or more members fall victim. At the cemetery, the Black Death-invalids promised to act the history of Jesus Christ every ten years. On the Pentecost in 1634, a stage was built at the cemetery constructed over the fresh graves of the victims, the towns people acted the first Play on a stage.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the Oberammergau Passion Play, a profound and revered Catholic tradition that draws pilgrims from around the world. The Oberammergau Passion Play holds a special place in the hearts of devout Catholics, as it portrays the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Dating back to 1634, when the play was first performed as a vow to end the plague, it has since evolved into a grand spectacle of faith and devotion.

The Passion Play Pilgrimage to Oberammergau is a journey of spiritual significance for Catholics seeking to deepen their connection to the life and teachings of Jesus. Each performance of the Passion Play is a powerful reenactment of biblical events, transporting audiences back in time to witness the final days of Jesus on earth. Pilgrims come from far and wide to experience the profound emotions and spiritual insights that the Passion Play inspires.

Attending the Oberammergau Passion Play is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many Catholics, and securing Passion Play Tickets can be a crucial part of planning your pilgrimage. With demand high and availability limited, it’s essential to book your tickets well in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on this extraordinary experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, obtaining Passion Play Tickets is the first step towards embarking on your pilgrimage to Oberammergau.

The Oberammergau Passion Play is more than just a theatrical production; it’s a profound expression of faith and devotion that has endured for centuries. The dedication and commitment of the performers, who are all residents of Oberammergau, shine through in every scene, making the experience even more authentic and moving for audiences. From the stirring musical performances to the elaborate costumes and set design, every aspect of the Passion Play is crafted with care and reverence.

For Catholics embarking on a Passion Play Pilgrimage, Oberammergau offers more than just a theatrical experience; it’s a sacred journey to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. Beyond the performance itself, pilgrims can explore the picturesque village of Oberammergau, steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Visiting local churches, chapels, and shrines allows pilgrims to immerse themselves fully in the spiritual atmosphere of this holy place.

The Oberammergau Passion Play is a testament to the enduring power of faith and community, bringing people together from all walks of life in a shared celebration of Catholic tradition. Whether you’re a devout believer or simply curious to witness this centuries-old spectacle, the Passion Play Pilgrimage to Oberammergau offers something meaningful for everyone. From the moment you secure your Passion Play Tickets to the final curtain call, you’ll be immersed in an unforgettable journey of faith and inspiration.

Looking ahead, anticipation is already building for the next iteration of the Oberammergau Passion Play, scheduled for 2030. As the years pass, each new performance of the Passion Play carries with it a sense of continuity and renewal, keeping alive a tradition that has spanned centuries. The 2030 Passion Play promises to be a momentous occasion, drawing pilgrims and spectators alike to witness the timeless story of Jesus’ passion, death, and resurrection unfold once more on the stage in Oberammergau. For Catholics planning their pilgrimage, it’s never too early to start preparing for this sacred event, ensuring that they can secure their Passion Play Tickets and embark on a journey of faith that will resonate for years to come.

Where is Oberammergau?

Approximately sixty (60) miles south of Munich, you will find the town of Oberammergau. Nestled in the high alpine valley, the sprawling mountains and picturesque meadows that surround the town provide the setting for the Play. This quiet and charming village is not only known for their hospitality, but the dozens of woodcarving shops that encompass the streets. In addition to the Passion Play, you will have the opportunity to pass through the Romantic Road region which is full of beautiful old Churches. The most famous of all is the Michaelskapelle, part of the Convent located in Fraueninsel, near the Chiemsee.

About the Play:

The play depicts the story of Our Lord Jesus Christ’s Passion, beginning with the entry into Jerusalem, and ending with the resurrection and transfiguration. Each performance starts at 2:30 P.M., and ends at approximately 10:30 P.M. Intermission / Dinner Break: Takes place half way through the play, and you are allotted three (3) hours. Language: The Play is performed in German, but you will receive a printed English translation Dates: May through September of 2022.

*Note: While we do NOT sell individual tickets, ALL of our pilgrimage packages include Tickets to the Passion Play!

Stage:

Performed in a giant open-air performance hall, it seats approximately 4,700 in attendance. Seats located towards the front of the stage, are located under the open roof, sitting under the night sky. The back end of the hall is covered by a ceiling. Performances are live, with the actors being joined by real animals.

What type of Passion Play Packages will be available?

Our Pilgrimages guarantee tickets to the show, along with Accommodations, Meals, Transfers, and Tours (as per itinerary). There are several types of pilgrimages that will be offered. For those that do not want a long trip, be offer pilgrimage to Oberammergau Three (3) Overnights).

Performance Schedule?

The Passion Play will be staged for a total of 102 Performances. There will be five (5) performances per week, taking place on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. (Theatre will be Closed on Monday and Wednesday)

Informational Schedule:

Ash Wednesday (March 6, 2022): The day known as the “Hair and Barterlass”. From this day forth, all of the male performers begin to let their hair and beards grow in preparation for their roles in the play.
April of 2022: The leading actors (Jesus, Peter, Judas, Pontius Pilate, and Mary) will be announced. Also, 120 other smaller speaking roles, along with the player selection, and the some 2,000 contributors who will participate.
Fall of 2022: Rehearsals for the Passion Play begin.
May 14th, 2022: The opening of the first performance of the 42nd Annual Passion Play begins.
October 2nd, 2022: The closing of the last performance of the 42nd Annual Passion Play begins.

Play Times:

May 14 – Aug 14
PART I – 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Dinner
PART II – 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Aug 15 – Oct 2
PART I – 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Dinner
PART II – 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM