If you mention Oktoberfest, people immediately think of Germany. It’s important to note, however, that numerous other large festivals are held in Germany each summer and fall.
If you’re looking for a quick getaway or even a longer trip, here’s an overview of five festivals in Germany you won’t want to miss this summer and fall.
1. Rheingau Wine Festival
August 11–20
Wiesbaden’s Schlossplatz, the square in front of the Marktkirche and the Dern’sche grounds, will once again be transformed into “a dream destination for wine lovers,” Fritzi Luca, public relations and communications manager, West Coast, German National Tourist Office, told TravelAwaits. The 10-day festival will feature more than 100 booths, three large stages where musical acts will perform, and what’s called “the longest wine counter in the world,” where you can sample fine Rheingau wines.
2. Rhine In Flames
Spay-Koblenz: August 13
Oberwesel: September 9
St. Goar: September 16
“On special nights through September, villages, cultural landscapes, castles, and parks in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate shine bright when a fascinating firework display illuminates them while about 75 festively decorated ships move in convoy along the river,” Luca told TravelAwaits. “The convoy of ships [is] accompanied by the thunder of the magnificent fireworks, the echo of which refracts in the mountain slopes and makes the whole valley tremble,” according to festival organizers.
When the traveling festival stops along the Rhine River, attendees can also enjoy music concerts.
3. Festival-Mediaval
September 9–October 9
Festival-Mediaval is an annual music festival held in Selb, a town in the district of Wunsiedel in Upper Franconia, Bavaria, Germany. It is the largest European festival of medieval music.
“In addition to the music program, visitors can enjoy large medieval markets, fire artists, historical theater, workshops, bow tournaments, and many other experiences,” Luca told TravelAwaits. “The whole festival revolves around learning more about the traditions of the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the early Baroque.”
This year, campers, caravans, car sleepers, tents, and even mixed groups can spend nights at the Borderland campsite in neighboring Heidelheim.
4. Reeperbahn Festival
September 20–23
More than 350 live concerts will take place in and around Hamburg’s St. Pauli neighborhood during the 4-day Reeperbahn Festival. Hamburg, in northern Germany, is the country’s second-largest city (after Berlin).
“The festival combines a diverse lineup of new, international talent with the thematic diversity of a progressive music marketplace,” Luca continued. “Venues range from underground clubs and bars to state buildings, such as the Imperial Theater, School Museum, and St. Pauli Church. In addition to concerts, there is also an extensive art program.”
5. Cannstatter Volksfest
September 22–October 8
The 176th Cannstatter Volksfest is rich in tradition, Luca explains. Held in Stuttgart, it is the largest festival held in the southwest German state of Baden-Württemberg. It is also one of the largest funfairs in Europe.
“Cannstatter Volksfest is a family-friendly event with numerous rides, colorful parades, haunted houses, roller coasters, and Ferris wheels,” Luca told TravelAwaits. “You can taste delicious regional specialties, German beers, and wines at the many food stands and in the beer tents.”
While you’re thinking about a trip, be sure to read all our Germany content, including: