Experience the power of music in Kerkrade – no contests, just pure inspiration
Would you like to perform at the world’s biggest wind music festival - without taking part in the contests? Then WMC Fringe is your chance to experience the unique WMC atmosphere up close.
Even bands participating in the contests can register for additional performances within the Fringe program.
Fringe is all about inspiration, growth, and cultural exchange - a place where musicians, ensembles, and show bands from all over the world come together to share music, connect, and surprise audiences.
What's Fringe?
WMC Fringe was introduced during the World Music Contest 2022, when the former Festival Division evolved into this new, accessible program. It became a great success: hundreds of musicians experienced the joy of performing at WMC in Kerkrade - without the pressure of contests.
In 2026, the Fringe will take on an even bigger role within the World Music Contest, featuring four weekends of live music, inspiring encounters, and surprising performances in the heart of Kerkrade.
WMC Fringe is open to all kinds of musical ensembles - from wind and brass bands to percussion ensembles and show bands. Even bands that are not competing in the official contests are warmly invited to take part and share their music with audiences from around the world.
Performances & locations
During WMC 2026, the Fringe performances will take place on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays over four weekends: 10–12 July, 17–19 July, 24–26 July, and 31 July–2 August.
Performances are scheduled between 12:00 and 18:00 hrs, followed in the evenings by the BLOW! Outdoor Program. Available stages:
- Markt (Market Square)
- Hinger Herjods Ruk
New in 2026 is the marching route for show and marching bands: starting from the City Park, you’ll march past the Rodahal along Koningsweg, Diepenbrockstraat, J.S. Bachstraat, Van Beethovenstraat, and Niersprinkstraat, ending at the Markt - where you’ll conclude with a short show for the audience.
Each band is allotted a maximum performance time of one hour.
Why take part in the WMC Fringe Festival?
As a participant in the WMC Fringe Festival, you’ll enjoy:
- Discounted access to contests, concerts, and other WMC events;
- Inclusion in the official festival program;
- A unique stage experience on the world stage of Kerkrade;
- The opportunity to make new musical connections in an international setting.
Join the WMC Fringe and experience the power of music — without contest, with inspiration!
