Passion Play

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 The Passion Play of Oberammergau

An International Spectacle

Mid May to the end of September 2030

A Tradition Spanning Nearly 400 Years

The history of the Passion Play began in 1633 during the Thirty Years’ War. After months of suffering and death caused by the plague, the people of Oberammergau made a solemn vow that, if they were spared, they would perform the Play of the Suffering, Death and Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ every ten years.

At Pentecost in 1634, the villagers fulfilled their promise for the first time, performing the play on a stage erected in the cemetery above the freshly dug graves of the plague victims.

Since that historic performance, the Passion Play of Oberammergau has become the most famous Passion Play in the world. Preserved almost without interruption for nearly 400 years, this extraordinary tradition will continue for the 43rd time in 2030. Today it is recognised as one of the world’s most significant religious theatrical events.

A World-Renowned Event

The picturesque village on the edge of the Bavarian Alps welcomes approximately 500,000 visitors during each Passion Play season, with more than half arriving from overseas.

One of the unique features of the Passion Play is that every performer comes from the local community. Under a special village law, all actors, choir members, orchestra musicians, ushers and supporting participants must either have been born in Oberammergau or have lived there continuously for at least 20 years.

From the principal roles of Jesus, Mary and Judas through to the chorus, orchestra and production team, the Passion Play remains a true community performance and the world’s largest amateur dramatic production.

An Inspiring Experience

The most recent Passion Play was a deeply moving event of international significance. More than 400,000 visitors from around the world gathered in Oberammergau to witness the story of Christ in a unique and inspiring atmosphere.

With remarkable dedication, more than 1,800 residents—almost half of the village’s population — participated in the production. For ten months they devoted themselves to rehearsals and preparation, bringing the life of Jesus vividly to the stage, from His triumphant entry into Jerusalem through to His crucifixion and glorious resurrection.

Combined with magnificent music, exceptional performances and centuries of tradition, the Passion Play creates an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression on audiences from every corner of the world.

The Passion Play Returns in 2030

In 2030, the people of Oberammergau will once again present the Passion Play, continuing a remarkable tradition that has endured for nearly four centuries. This will be the 43rd performance since the original vow was fulfilled in 1634.

Travel with The Tour Company

The Tour Company is proud to present its fourth exclusive Passion Play programme for travellers from New Zealand and Australia, following the success of our tours in 2000, 2010 and 2022.

We invite you to join us in 2030 on one of our carefully designed tours or luxury river cruises. With five different Passion Play itineraries to choose from, there is an option to suit a wide range of travel interests and experiences.

Custom Group Tours

Organise Your Own Group

Would you like to travel with members of your parish, community organisation, club or a group of friends?

We specialise in creating customised itineraries for groups of 15 or more people. Our experienced team will assist with every aspect of planning and will also provide personalised marketing material and presentation support to help make organising your group simple and enjoyable.

Group Organiser Reward

As our way of saying thank you, if your customised tour has 20 full-paying adult travellers, the organiser travels as the 21st member of the group FREE on the Passion Play tour.

“We went on pilgrimage as strangers, but we left as friends.
This was the reality for myself and for many others sharing our pilgrimage. In just a few days we found ourselves sharing profound experiences and enjoying relaxed touring with our like minded fellow travellers. We all left refreshed, balanced and with a deeper connection. Thank you.”

A Jenkins