Speaking on The Lunchbox on RTL Today Radio, founder Thierry Schmitz reflected on how the Beautiful Decay Festival evolved from a 2017 art project into a full three-day music and arts event at Gréiweschlass.
The name came from literal ruins, first his grandfather’s house, later the castle before renovation.
Early momentum was halted by Covid cancellations in 2020 and 2021, but when the first full edition finally happened in 2022, it confirmed the vision.
Beautiful Decay runs 10–12 July 2026, and each day has its own character. Friday is dedicated to electronic music, curated alongside the PEAK collective: 13 DJs across three stages from early evening into the early hours.
Saturday focuses on emerging artists, acts Thierry and co-curator Marc believe are about to break big.
Past bookings have proven that instinct right, for example they were early adopters of the love for Royel Otis.
Sunday broadens the appeal, blending live bands with a more accessible, family-friendly atmosphere across the castle grounds.
One of this year’s major bookings is Jet, and in a sign of the festival’s growing profile, the approach came from the band’s side.
“They asked us, ‘is this something for Beautiful Decay?’”
Thierry confirms, “Of course we said yes.” Negotiations aligned their European tour schedule with the festival’s dates, marking a milestone moment for the organisers.
There’s also a still-secret Saturday midnight headliner, described only as a very well-known young act with international momentum. Thierry advises festival goers to keep their eyes on the Beautiful Decay social media.
The line-up stretches from Madsen and Bibiza to Luxembourg favourites like Versus You, alongside DJs including Netty Hugo.
Beyond music, visitors can expect a 20-metre live graffiti installation, a craft village featuring 25 artists, expanded camping facilities, and a site that makes full use of the castle’s historic setting.
Five years in, Beautiful Decay feels less like an experiment and more like a fixture, built on persistence, instinct, and a clear sense of identity.
