The 2026 Aufguss USA Nationals concluded last week after three days of heat, artistry, ritual, and competition held across two Bathhouse locations in New York City, marking another major milestone in the rapid growth of sauna culture in the United States.

This year’s event brought together leading Sauna Masters from across the United States to compete in both Show Aufguss and the inaugural Modern Classic Cup before an international panel of judges from Aufguss WM.

The Show Aufguss competition took place May 19–20 at Bathhouse Atlantic Avenue in Downtown Brooklyn, while the Modern Classic Cup was held May 21 at Bathhouse Flatiron.

Together, the events highlighted the continuing evolution of sauna culture from a traditional wellness practice into a fully immersive social wellness experience combining heat, aroma, music, storytelling, atmosphere, and ritual.

“This year’s competition demonstrated how rapidly the level of Aufguss in the United States is advancing,” said Don Genders, Chair of Aufguss USA and CEO of organizing sponsor Design for Leisure. “The creativity, professionalism, technical skill, and emotional connection displayed throughout the week were truly exceptional. We are incredibly proud of every Sauna Master who participated.”

The 2026 Nationals also reflected the movement’s accelerating momentum, with competitor applications doubling compared to last year and expanded qualification opportunities granted to the United States by Aufguss WM.

Show Aufguss Results

Team Show Aufguss

• First Place: Alexi Irvine & Joli Irvine
• Second Place: Tovi Wayne & Alonzo Solorzano
• Runners Up: Breana Marshall & Muhammad “Mo” Hodge

Solo Show Aufguss

• First Place: Tovi Wayne
• Second Place: Travis Talmadge
• Runner Up: Alonzo Solorzano

Modern Classic Cup Results

• First Place: Travis Talmadge
• Second Place: TJ Lupo
• Runner Up: Tovi Wayne

Travis Talmadge_Modern Classic Winner

First- and second-place winners in the Show Aufguss categories secured direct qualification to the 2026 Aufguss WM Finals at Satama Sauna Resort & Spa, scheduled for September 13–20. Third-place finishers earned entry into the Playoffs at Thermen Bussloo, taking place August 27–30.

Show Aufguss performances emphasized theatrical and high-energy presentations integrating choreography, lighting, costumes, and immersive storytelling. Meanwhile, Modern Classic Cup competitors will advance through the international Modern Classic pathway leading to the finals at Farris Bad, scheduled for October 1–4, 2026. The championship focuses on the traditional art of Aufguss, emphasizing heat management, essential oils, atmosphere, and towel technique.

The event was supported by organizing sponsor Design for Leisure; venue partner Bathhouse; Platinum Sponsor and Official Sauna Partner Harvia; Gold Sponsor Aufguss Roots USA; and event partners Aromen and Romana.

Together, these partners helped support the continued expansion of Aufguss culture and communal sauna experiences throughout the United States.

As the official U.S. member organization of Aufguss WM, Aufguss USA continues to promote European sauna ritual culture across the United States while helping develop a new generation of Sauna Masters for the international stage.