Wave Gothic Fest

Dark blue and black textured background with no distinct objects or figures.

may 21, 2026
-
may 27, 2026

A close-up of a textured blue surface, possibly a painted wall or fabric.

Germany

A dark, textured surface with shades of blue and black.

Reaching a Lost Europe

Reaching a Lost Europe

Ministering with EI is Life Changing

"It was in the eyes of strangers in Europe that I truly understood Jesus’ words about laying down one’s life for others."

-Matthew C.

Tennessee, USA

A group of five people, including a man with colorful mohawk hairstyle and tattoos, talking outdoors near vehicles.
A group of five young adults, three men and two women, standing outdoors in casual attire, engaged in conversation. One man has blonde and blue hair with piercings, wearing sunglasses and spiked clothing, while the others have different hairstyles and clothing styles.

Over the course of several days, the team will:

  • Share the gospel inside the festival grounds

  • Build relationships through intentional conversations and prayer

  • Receive training and encouragement from experienced EI staff

  • Visit Wittenberg, one of the birthplaces of the Protestant Reformation

  • Join EI staff for an additional outreach in Berlin

Goth Fest outreach is eye-opening, faith-building, and full of powerful encounters with people who may never have experienced God’s love in such a direct way.

How it works

A group of four people outdoors, two adults and two teenagers, embracing and comforting each other with serious and comforting expressions, in front of a cityscape with buildings.
Group of four people gathered closely in an outdoor setting, with one person in the center visibly emotional as others comfort them, in front of historical buildings and trees.

Once every year, more than 25,000 people flood Leipzig, Germany, for the world’s largest Gothic festival. Behind the elaborate costumes and dark appearances are people searching for meaning, hope, and connection. For the past 16 years, EI has been a living expression of light in the midst of Goth Fest.

Goth Fest outreach is an invitation to step into this unique setting and bring the love of Jesus through conversation, prayer, and friendship. Team members are trained and equipped before entering the festival grounds, learning how to share the gospel with compassion and confidence.

What Is the Wave Gothic Fest?

Join Us

If you have a heart to bring light where many least expect it, Goth Fest is an unforgettable opportunity to serve. Past participants describe it as one of the most meaningful and transformative outreach experiences of their lives.

Dates: Goth Fest Only: May 22 – 25, 2026 or
Full Trip: May 21 – 27, 2026

Cost: Goth Fest Only: 470€ / $500 or
Full Trip: ca. 650€ / $680

Goth Fest cost includes festival entrance ticket, lodging, local transport, and meals. Full Trip adds 3 nights lodging in Berlin, extra transportation, and meals. International airfare not included.

Apply Now

Application Deadline: April 20, 2026

"I came back completely transformed, with a radical change in my heart that nothing could have prepared me for."

― Karis L.

Colorodo, USA