The Global Sauna Movement Expands: UK Aufguss Championships Return to Galgorm in 2026

The sauna renaissance is not slowing down — it is evolving.

After the Global Wellness Institute identified “Reimagined Sauna” as a key global wellness trend in 2024, the rise of Aufguss continues to redefine thermal culture across Europe and beyond. What was once considered a traditional heat ritual is now a sophisticated, immersive performance blending technique, storytelling, and sensory precision.

In this context, the British Sauna Society has announced the return of the UK Aufguss Championships to the award-winning Galgorm Resort in Northern Ireland, taking place April 20–22, 2026. This marks the second time the event will be hosted at Galgorm, following a highly successful debut in 2024.

Two Paths, One Championship: Tradition Meets Innovation

For 2026, the championship format expands with the introduction of a new category: Modern Classic Aufguss, alongside the established Performance Aufguss (Single and Team) competitions.

This expanded structure reflects the rapid growth of Aufguss in the UK and internationally.

• Performance Aufguss delivers immersive, theatrical sauna rituals combining choreography, music, storytelling, and advanced heat and aroma craftsmanship.
• Modern Classic Aufguss honors the roots of the discipline, focusing on traditional technique, ritual structure, and refined heat distribution.

Winners will advance to represent the UK at the Aufguss World Championships Finals at Satama Sauna Resort and the World Finals at Farris Bad later in 2026.

As Deborah Carr, UK Aufguss Lead at the British Sauna Society, explains:

“The introduction of the Modern Classic category allows us to honor tradition while celebrating innovation, giving Sauna Masters at all levels the opportunity to grow, refine their craft, and compete internationally.”

Galgorm: A Destination That Understands Sauna Culture

Located in Northern Ireland, Galgorm Resort has positioned itself as a leader in immersive thermal spa experiences. Its Thermal Spa Village provides a sophisticated setting where mastery, authenticity, and innovation converge.

Tara Moore, Associate Director of Spa Operations at Galgorm, notes:

“Sauna has always been at the heart of our wellbeing offering, and Aufguss plays an important role in how we deliver immersive, authentic thermal experiences for our guests.”

For wellness travelers, this championship is more than a competition. It is a cultural immersion into contemporary sauna artistry.

A Strategic Investment for Spas and Wellness Businesse

The rise of Aufguss is not only cultural, it is commercial.

Spas that invest in training Sauna Masters and developing high-quality ritual programs consistently report:

• Stronger member retention
• Increased guest satisfaction
• Deeper engagement with thermal experiences
• Clear market differentiation

In an era where sauna is being redefined as both a cultural centerpiece and a strategic business asset, events like the UK Aufguss Championships reinforce its long-term value within the hospitality and wellness sectors.

A Destination Event for Wellness Travelers

The 2026 edition promises high-level competition, cash prizes, and a vibrant atmosphere celebrating contemporary sauna culture.

For competitors, it is a national platform with international projection.
For spa guests and spectators, it is a rare opportunity to experience world-class sauna mastery.
For wellness travelers, it is a purpose-driven journey centered on ritual, heat, and holistic wellbeing.

Galgorm Resort is offering day and overnight packages starting from £85. Registration details and competitor information are available via the British Sauna Society.

🔗 To book tickets or enter the competition HERE

The New Era of Sauna

Sauna is no longer just about heat. It is ritual, performance, precision, and shared sensory experience.

In the age of Reimagined Sauna, Aufguss stands at the intersection of Nordic heritage, immersive storytelling, and modern wellness hospitality.

For industry leaders, experience designers, and global wellness travelers, April 2026 at Galgorm is shaping up to be a must-attend event.

The heat returns to center stage, with global vision.