MS Dockville, a leading music and arts festival, is set to return to Europe’s largest river island this August. Bringing together the best of both worlds, the three-day festival aims to create an authentic experience for all of its 60.000 plus attendees.

Taking place for the first time in 2007 at an industrial setting by the river Elbe, MS Dockville has grown into the leading creative festival in Hamburg. More than 130 musical acts, ranging from well-known artists to upcoming bands, took to its 12 stages in previous years, and this edition promises even more performances.

Photo credit: © Pablo Heimplatz

More than just a music festival

In the run-up to MS Dockville, the two-week-long visual arts and cultural festival known as MS Artville takes place at the same location south of the Elbe. This event and art exhibition invites artists from across the globe to come and work on a piece for several weeks in the open-air gallery. In the Slamville section, the written and spoken word is put in the spotlight, as poets and singers / songwriters take to the stage to share their work. 

The multi-week arts festival culminates in the three-day music festival, bringing together music and visual art in a single, stunning showcase.

Arts, music and more in Hamburg’s Wihelmsburg 

MS Dockville is situated in a unique location, on the banks of the river, right behind the dykes which protect industrial Wihelmsburg from flood waters. Its special location in a nature reserve means that the festival promotes a sustainable approach to protecting the beautiful landscape.

The camping grounds accompanying the festival are rather limited in size and facilities, and motorised vehicles are not permitted in the area. Organisers advise attendees to use public transport, shuttle buses or bicycles to reach the MS Dockville festival site to keep in line with their eco ethos. 

Photo credit: © Marius Krimmig

MS Dockville 2025 programme highlights 

The arts and music festival boasts a spectacular programme for its 2025 event, with leading international and national artists headlining, such as:

• Nieve Ella
• David Bay Music
• Ritter Lean
• Malugi
• Anja Schneider
• Lena&Linus
• X CLUB.
• Jassin
• Nectar Woode
• Township Rebellion
• Good Neighbours
• Paula Engels
• Sally C
• frytz
• BASHKKA
• MC WINDHUND
• KABEAUSHÉ
• Nina Hepburn
• Esther Silex

Photo credit: © Hinrich Carstensen

Attending MS Dockville

Planning on attending MS Dockville this summer while visiting Hamburg? Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as this festival is likely to sell out fast! For more details, visit the MS Dockville website.