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Venues #3 in Aarau

KIFF

4.5 · 1,002 reviews
Energetic, industrial, and informal.
KIFF, Tellistrasse 118, 5000 Aarau, Switzerland
Interesting facts
1

The name 'KIFF' is an abbreviation for 'Kultur In Der Futterfabrik', referencing its historical use as a feed factory.

2

The venue has been operating since 1989, making it one of the longest-standing cultural institutions of its kind in the region.

3

KIFF operates as a member-based association rather than a strictly commercial business entity.

4

The venue hosts more than 100 events annually, ranging from concerts to club nights and cultural festivals.

5

The interior layout is designed to allow for flexible use, accommodating both standing-only shows and seated performances.

6

The venue actively supports the local Aargau music scene through specialized workshops and rehearsal room rentals.

Overview

KIFF is a prominent concert venue in Aarau housed in a repurposed industrial building near the city's railway tracks. The venue serves as a cultural hub for alternative music, hosting a diverse range of genres including rock, indie, hip-hop, and electronic music. It features an integrated bar area that operates alongside performances, creating a social space for concert-goers. The venue is managed by a non-profit association dedicated to promoting local and international musical talent. Its infrastructure includes a main performance hall equipped for live audio-visual production. The space maintains a raw, utilitarian aesthetic typical of its industrial origins. It acts as a significant pillar for the cultural life of the Aargau region.

Photo spot

The neon-lit exterior signage at the main entrance against the industrial backdrop.

Insider tips

Check the online calendar in advance as the venue does not operate on a daily fixed schedule.

Use ear protection if standing near the front of the stage, as the acoustics are optimized for volume and intensity.

Arrive early to secure a spot near the bar area if you prefer a less crowded viewing experience.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to drive to the venue as parking is extremely limited; rely on pedestrian access from the city center.

Good to know

Closed on non-event days; programming typically focuses on Thursday through Saturday nights.

Etiquette

Casual streetwear is standard; no specific dress code, though comfortable footwear is advised for standing.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Friday or Saturday nights during the autumn or winter seasons for the peak concert atmosphere.
Address
KIFF, Tellistrasse 118, 5000 Aarau, Switzerland
Website
47.399, 8.064
Get directions
Details
Performance CapacityApproximately 600 standing capacity
Focus GenresAlternative, Rock, Hip-Hop, Electronic

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Friday or Saturday nights during the autumn or winter seasons for the peak concert atmosphere..

The neon-lit exterior signage at the main entrance against the industrial backdrop.

Close by you'll find Wildpark Roggenhausen, Stadtmuseum Aarau, Momentum Church.