Freiluft Children's and Youth Theater (Kindersommer)

An open-air theater for children in South Tyrol

The Freiluft Children's and Youth Theater, also known as Kindersommer, is an open-air summer theater festival dedicated to children, teenagers, and families, held every year in the gardens of Kränzelhof, in the municipality of Cermes/Tscherms, in the Province of Bolzano/Bozen, in the Trentino-Alto Adige region. The freiluft company presents a new theatrical production each summer, performed over ten consecutive evenings in a natural amphitheater carved out among the estate's meadows and vineyards.

The setting of Kränzelhof

The Kränzelhof in Tscherms is famous for its artistic gardens, a route of seven thematic gardens winding through sculptures, labyrinths, and vineyards. It is in this setting that the performance comes to life: families sit on grassy outdoor tiers while the actors animate the stage as evening falls. The intimate atmosphere and proximity to nature make every performance a different experience compared to traditional indoor theater.

Shows and repertoire

Active since 2021, the festival has featured classics of children's literature and contemporary texts over the years: from Max & Moritz to Die dumme Augustine, and Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten in 2025. The productions, performed in German, are designed for audiences aged 6 and up, but they also engage adults thanks to their immediate stage language, humor, and the strength of the characters.

• Location: Kränzelhof gardens, Gampenstraße 1, Cermes/Tscherms
• Time: Evenings generally start at 7:00 PM and last about an hour
• Audience: Children and teenagers aged 6 and up, families
• Language: Performances in German

An event for families in the Adige Valley

Easily accessible from Lana and Merano/Meran, the Kindersommer has become a fixture of the cultural summer in the Burgraviato. Booking is recommended, as evenings often sell out. With its mix of quality theater, natural setting, and affordable prices, the festival is one of the most beloved offerings for families spending their summer holidays in the Merano area and its surroundings.