Germany, situated in the heart of Europe, is a country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic events scene. Throughout the year, Germany hosts a plethora of events that celebrate its traditions, arts, music, and technological innovation.
Oktoberfest is the world’s largest Volksfest (beer festival and travelling funfair). Held annually in Munich, it features traditional Bavarian beer, food, music, dancing, and amusement rides.
Time: Late September to early October.
Oktoberfest in Munich
Oktoberfest in Munich is the world’s largest beer festival, attracting millions of visitors every year. There are beer tents, fair tours, traditional music and Bavarian food. In addition to Oktoberfest, there are many other beer festivals and events across Germany that celebrate local beers and traditions.
Time: From the end of September to the beginning of October.
Carnival is celebrated across Germany with parades, parties, and street festivals. Each region has its traditions, but notable celebrations include the Cologne Carnival, Mainz Carnival, and the Karneval der Kulturen in Berlin.
Time: February (dates vary).
Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale)
Berlinale is one of the world’s leading film festivals, showcasing a diverse selection of international films, including feature films, documentaries, short films, and animations.
Time: February.
Christkindlesmarkt, held in Nuremberg, is one of Germany’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets, featuring traditional crafts, food, mulled wine, and a festive atmosphere.
Time: Late November to December.
Wurstmarkt, held in Bad Dürkheim, is the world’s largest wine festival, featuring wine tasting, local cuisine, live music, parades, and carnival rides.
Time: Second and third weekend of September.
Documenta is an international exhibition of contemporary art held every five years in Kassel. It features works by renowned artists from around the world.
Time: Every five years, typically from June to September.
Rhine in Flames (Rhein in Flammen)
Rhine in Flames is a series of fireworks displays along the Rhine River, accompanied by illuminated castles, music, and cultural events. It takes place at various locations along the Rhine.
Time: Various dates from May to September.
Stuttgart Beer Festival (Cannstatter Volksfest)
Cannstatter Volksfest is the second-largest beer festival in Germany, held in Stuttgart. It features beer tents, fairground rides, traditional music, and Bavarian cuisine.
Time: Late September to early October.
Hamburg Port Anniversary (Hamburger Hafengeburtstag)
The Hamburg Port Anniversary is the world’s largest port festival, featuring ship parades, maritime exhibitions, concerts, fireworks, and family-friendly activities along the river Elbe.
Time: May.
Walpurgis Night (Walpurgisnacht)
Walpurgis Night is a traditional pagan festival celebrated across Germany with bonfires, dancing, music, and rituals to welcome the arrival of spring and ward off evil spirits.
Time: April 30th.