Spa Opportunities: Aufguss goes stateside: NYC to host first-ever national US competition in June

Competitors will be judged on steam and temperature control, towel-waving techniques and audience engagement through storytelling Credit: Aufguss WM

The ancient European sauna ritual of aufguss is continuing to make waves in the US, as the country prepares to host its first-ever national sauna competition this summer.

Aufguss, which originated in Europe, transforms a traditional sauna session into a multisensory performance, where masters use heat, scent, music and storytelling to create an immersive wellness experience. The US competition will introduce American audiences to the art form while giving local sauna masters the chance to showcase their skills on a global stage.

Taking place at Bathhouse in Williamsburg, NYC, from 23-24 June, 2025, the event will determine which American sauna masters will earn a spot at the Aufguss WM World Championships in September 2025.

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