Germany is renowned for its vibrant festivals, offering a unique glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-experience festivities in Germany, organized by month.

Festivities in January

New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag)

• Fireworks and celebrations welcome the new year.
• Various events and parties across the country.

Festivities in February

Berlin Fashion Week (2025)

• Scheduled from February 3-6, 2025.
• Highlights creativity and innovation in the fashion industry.
• Attracts renowned designers and fashion enthusiasts globally.

Karneval (Carnival)

Cities like Cologne and Mainz celebrate with colorful parades and street parties. The festivities peak on Rosenmontag (Rose Monday), the Monday before Ash Wednesday. The street carnival begins on Weiberfastnacht (February 27, 2025), the Thursday before Rose Monday (March 3, 2025). Until Veilchendienstag (March 4, 2025), there is a well-established sequence of sessions, balls, and parades.

Festivities in April

Frühlingsfest in Stuttgart

• Largest spring festival in Europe with rides, food stalls, and traditional entertainment.
• Celebrates the arrival of spring with vibrant activities.

Festivities in May

Walpurgis Night (Walpurgisnacht)

• Celebrated on April 30th into May 1st with bonfires and dancing.
• Associated with folklore and witchcraft.

May Day (Maifest)

• May 1st celebrates labor day with festivals and parades.
• Traditional „Maibäume“ (maypoles) are erected in many towns.

Festivities in June

Erlangen Beer Festival

• Showcases the rich brewing tradition of the Erlangen region.
• Features local beers, traditional food, and live music.

Kiel Week (Kieler Woche)

• The world’s largest sailing event in Kiel.
• Includes a cultural festival with music, food, and entertainment.

Festivities in July

Christopher Street Day (CSD)

• Celebrations and parades for LGBTQ+ pride.
• Major events in cities like Berlin, Cologne, and Hamburg.

Heidenheim Opera Festival

• Outdoor opera performances in a natural setting.
• Combines the majesty of opera with the beauty of the night sky.

Festivities in August

Rhine in Flames (Rhein in Flammen)

• Fireworks and light displays along the Rhine River.
• Music and festivities in cities like Bonn and Koblenz.

Festivities in September

Oktoberfest

• Starts in late September in Munich.
• The world’s largest beer festival with traditional music, food, and drinks.

Festivities in October

Halloween

• Gaining popularity with costume parties and themed events.
• Trick-or-treating in urban areas.

Festival of Lights in Berlin

• Iconic landmarks illuminated with artistic light projections.
• Creates a magical atmosphere in the city.

Tag der Deutschen Einheit

• Celebrated on October 3rd, marking Germany’s reunification in 1990.
• Features parades, cultural events, and festivities nationwide.

Festivities in November

St. Martin’s Day (Martinstag)

• Celebrated on November 11th with lantern processions and songs.
• Commemorates St. Martin of Tours, known for his generosity.

All Saints‘ Day (Allerheiligen)

• November 1st, a day to honor all saints and deceased loved ones.
• Traditions include visiting cemeteries and lighting candles.

Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte)

• Christmas Markets open usually in late November.
• Nuremberg, Dresden, and Cologne are famous for their markets.

Festivities in December

Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte)

• Continue through December with festive foods, drinks, and crafts.

Nikolaus (St. Nicholas Day)

• Celebrated on December 6th.
• Children leave shoes out the night before to find them filled with treats by St. Nicholas.

New Year’s Eve (Silvester)

• Fireworks and celebrations to welcome the new year.
• Major events in cities like Berlin with concerts and parties.