German Events and Celebrations

Important Celebrations and Events

January is a relatively quiet month, although there are various events related to Carnival season, such as the proclamation of the Carnival King, until the climax of this festivity is reached during the months of February and March. Cologne, Mainz and Düsseldorf have the most spectacular Carnival celebrations, while the pagan version of this festivity can be found in Baden-Württemberg's Fastnet. During Holy Week, colourful church services are held throughout the country, particularly in rural areas. Another important festival held in April is Walpugisnacht, the witches' sabbath.

In May most of the summer festivals begin, with concerts in historical buildings - such as the exceptional Schlossstheater in Schwetzingen - classic religious festivals such as Whitsun or Corpus Christi in Cologne or Bamberg.

July is a month that is particularly filled with festivals, with wine and beer festivities such as those celebrated in Kulmbach. July also greets the opera festival in Bayreuth and Munich, exclusively devoted to Wagner.

Ironically, a considerable part of Munich's renowned Oktoberfest takes place in September. It involves many bacchanalian festivals, such as Bad Cannstatt's Volkfest or Heilbronn 's Weindorf.

October and November experience a slight downfall in the average number of festivities, until Christmas preparations begin in December, with an outburst of fairs and markets full of homemade goods ranging from toys to leather clothing and handmade decorations.