The XXVI. Spectaculum Citaviae will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, under the motto "Majestic Zittau".
The center of Zittau will once again dress itself in historical garb on May 13.
The program for children begins at 5:00 PM, and the town criers will take the reins at 7:00 PM. Together with the Lord Mayor, they will welcome all visitors from the balcony of the town hall. Musicians from near and far will ensure an enchanting atmosphere, while jugglers, merchants, and craftsmen pass the time in the surrounding streets. Historically decorated stalls invite you to linger, and there will be plenty of activity in the former butcher's stalls.
For the ceremonial conclusion of the XXVI. Spectaculum Citaviae with music, lights, and fireworks, everyone is cordially invited to the marketplace at 11:00 PM.
It was the year 1526 when Zittau came under Habsburg rule, Ferdinand I inherited the Bohemian crown, and thus the rule over Upper Lusatia. 500 eventful years have passed since then. In 1586, the "Old Gymnasium" was inaugurated, where graduates were to receive a masterly education. The benefactor was the famous Nicolaus von Dornspach, who promoted the humanistic style of education in Zittau. 680 years ago, in the year 1346, the Upper Lusatian League of Six Towns was founded, consisting of the towns of Zittau, Görlitz, Bautzen, Löbau, Kamenz, and Lauban. The Bohemian King and later Emperor Charles IV even promoted this league. Whether he and the cities had the idea for it is not proven.
But what is proven is that Zittau can celebrate majestically,
with maid and lad, woman and man,
with mayors from near and far,
with their entourage, the councilors,
reveling in food and drink...
Majestic celebrating, however, only succeeds with many actors. That is why we call on all culture enthusiasts in the region to actively participate in making it a success by creating a stage performance, street music, old crafts, or similar. Will you be there when it comes to transporting our beautiful city of Zittau back into history for one night again.
