"Paths come about by people walking them" (Franz Kafka) is the motto for this year's Tollwood Summer Festival, running from July 2 to 27 in Munich's Olympiapark. The center stage at the festival grounds is the music arena, where rock and folk legend Bob Dylan, the grande dame of the American music scene Natalie Cole, British multi-talent Bonobo and electro-swing pioneer Parov Stelar will all take the stage. After a break of three years, the band Chicago is back on tour and will come to the music arena on July 14. When it comes to German talent, hip-hop veteran Max Herre will also perform for two days in a row on the first festival weekend. Along with the music gigs, a "Market of Ideas" will take place, featuring international art and handicrafts.

The festival centers on eco-friendly ideas - evident in its organic food offerings and in a range of programs. This year, for example, the manner in which livestock is kept and bred will be in focus. Performance and conceptual artist HA Schult will present his installation titled "WIR das Tier" (WE the Animal).

The Tollwood festival has taken place since 1988 with two annual editions, one in summer and one in winter. Each year, around 1.5 million people attend the event. Entrance to the festival grounds as well as to many of Tollwood programs is free.

fm/gsw (Tollwood Festival)