Events

1000th anniversary of the death of Emperor Henry II.

The influence of Emperor Henry II, whose death will be commemorated for the 1000th time in 2024, can still be felt in Bamberg today: he founded the diocese, donated the cathedral and endowed the city with great art treasures. The anniversary offers many opportunities to trace him and his time.

The focus of the anniversary will be on the Domberg with numerous exhibitions and events in the museums around Bamberg Cathedral. In addition, there will be a series of programmes and events in Bamberg in 2024 on this topic by artists from all genres.

The daily city tour "Fascination World Cultural Heritage" and the Bamberg Shadow Theatre, which brings Bamberg's most harrowing and most gratifying events to life in St Catherine's Chapel, will also show just how great Heinrich's influence was.

Further information (only in German)

750th Anniversary "Reichsstadt" Rothenburg

Get ready for 2024 as Rothenburg ob der Tauber prepares a vast six-month celebration marking the 750th Anniversary of its exalted, elevated status as a “Reichsstadt” or Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire. All anniversary events are marked with the celebration year logo. Detailed information available at Rothenburg Tourismus Service or look here for highlight.

Carl Theodor Year

In 2024, Schwetzingen celebrates the 300th birthday of a great patron of science, research, art and music. Elector Carl Theodor (1724-1799) shaped the Palatinate court in the 18th century like no other.

Elector Carl Theodor brought the Lorraine architect Nicolas de Pigage (1723-1796) to the Electoral Palatinate in 1749. His task was to transform the former hunting lodge in Schwetzingen into a magnificent summer residence. Its original architecture has been preserved to this day. With the Roman moated castle, the temple of forest botany, the garden mosque and the temple of Mercury, Nicolas de Pigage set aesthetic accents in the English landscape garden. He also extended the French part of the garden with the New Orangery, the Natural Theatre with Temple of Apollo and the Temple of Minerva. Together with the palace, Schwetzingen developed into a total work of art that combined garden art with fine art.

The anniversary year will be officially opened on Sunday, 18 February at 10 a.m. with a memorial service in the palace church - two days after the 225th anniversary of his death. Numerous events will take place in autumn to mark the anniversary, including exhibitions, lectures and special guided tours.

The fascination of world cultural heritage - the daily adventure tour

Bamberg is full of secrets and surprises. On the popular "Fascination World Heritage Site" city tour, you will hear stories and experience history - in the midst of narrow alleyways, on medieval squares and in front of unique buildings. The daily sightseeing tour is an unforgettable experience.

Dates and times
23 March to 31 December 2024: daily 10:30 am
All year round: daily at 2 pm

Further information and booking

Eberbach hikes

The town of Eberbach is offering a guided hike with hiking guide Dr Susanna Büchner once a month in 2024. Different route lengths between 3.5 and 6 hours are featured.

Information and booking

Firey Evening - Firey Dishes, Fire Show & Burnt Punch

On selected dates, culinary delights are combined with a visit to the Sophienhöhle (Sophia Cave) at Rabenstein Castle, where the very special programme "Sophie at night" awaits guests.

Programme:
- Reception with mulled wine in the forecourt of the castle
- Torchlight hike to the Sophienhöhle cave
- Sophie at night" programme in the stalactite cave
- 3-course castle menu in the knights' halls of the castle

Price: 69,00 Euro per person Dates and booking

Dates and booking

Dinner Meets Magic

With the mentalist and magician Danny Ocean you will experience a magical evening with psychological refinement, magical fascination & culinary highlights. Let yourself be enchanted at a fine 4-course menu into a world of which you wouldn't even dream of. Things will happen, that do not seem to be able to be explained with laws of nature.

€ 109 per person

Further information, dates and booking (only in German)

Night watchman tours in Eberbach

In a illustrative and humorous way, the night watchman informs you about the past of Eberbach during this city walk. Accompany the night watchman on his tour through the romantic old town. Wearing a historical uniform with lantern and halberd, he will tell you the interesting history of the town and you will learn about the most beautiful sights of Eberbach. The walk through the nocturnal alleys, past the historic buildings of the picturesque town center, together with a "real" Eberbacher, is an unforgettable experience for everyone!

Dates 2024

• 03/02/2024 / 7:00 pm
• 06/04/2024 / 8:00 pm
• 04/05/2024 / 9:00 pm
• 01/06/2024 / 9:00 pm
• 06/07/2024 / 9:00 pm
• 03/08/2024 / 9:00 pm
• 07/09/2024 / 8:00 pm
• 02/11/2024 / 7:00 pm

Further information and booking(only in German)

Wild Boar Barbecue Buffet

From January to May and from October to December, the popular wild boar barbecue buffet will once again be held regularly in the Knights' Halls at Rabenstein Castle in 2023. It includes:

• Fresh crusty bread with herb butter and crackling lard
• Colourful salad selection from the buffet
• Cream soup with potatoes and leek
• Wild boar from the skewer with dark beer sauce, potato dumplings & Bavarian cabbage
• Assorted desserts

After the buffet, guests can round off the evening in the castle's cosy fireside lounge.

Price: 49,00 Euro per person

Dates & booking

Castle under tension - crime story reading with music

Where better to enjoy a gripping crime thriller than in the eerie ambience of an old castle?

On these dates, the picturesque Cadolzburg Castle opens its doors to all crime thriller fans. Authors from the region read from their latest works in the atmospheric oriel hall. Musical accompaniment is also provided - exciting and entertaining evenings with music and crime novels made in Franconia await.

In co-operation with ars vivdendi Verlag, Cadolzburg.

Dates 2024/25:

• 15 November 2024 / 7 p.m.
• 7 February 2025 / 7 p.m.
• 21 March 2025 / 7 p.m.

More information

Exhibition "Fortresses - Franconia's Bulwarks"

Can you lift a cannonball? What is a casemate? And what was life like on a fortress, in everyday life and in war?

Visitors can find out all this and much more at the exhibition "Fortresses - Franconia's Bulwarks" at Rosenberg Fortress. In Kronach, the exciting history of Franconian fortresses will be experienced at the original site.

Further information (only in German)

Exhibition: Living for Lace

Special lace from the collection of Marianne Stang, a passionate lace connoisseur who shaped the fortunes of the Abenberg Lace Museum for many years until her death in October 2020, will be on display.

The names of the artists represented show the diversity of the modern collection: unique works by Leni Matthaei, Suse Bernuth, Eva Fialova, Maria Vankova and many more can be seen.

Further information

Exhibition: "Through & Through - The 'Glass Design Studio' of the Tomáš Bata University in Zlín. Contemporary art from the Czech Republic"

A special exhibition by Petr Stanický's glass class at the Tomáš Bata University in Zlín with young glass art from the Czech Republic is on the programme at the European Museum of Modern Glass in 2024. Petr Stanický won the Alexander Tutsek Foundation Prize for Senior Artists at the Coburg Glass Award 2022. He is known for his sculptural objects made of glass and metal. Under his leadership, the Glass Design Studio has earned an outstanding reputation that extends far beyond the Czech Republic.

More information

Guided castle tours

Let yourself be guided through the castle and the museums! Abenberg Castle promises all kinds of surprises. The 1,000-year history of the imposing castle complex comes to life during an exciting castle tour with a stop at the historic tournament site.

The castle tours are offered regularly from March to October every Sunday of the month at 1.30 pm by the castle museum team. The meeting point is always at the castle gate.

A passion for barley juice

On a beer history tour of the town, you will learn interesting facts about Bamberg's beer history before paying an exclusive visit to the Schlenkerla brewery on Stephansberg. Here you will explore the brewery site with its own malt house and learn lots of interesting facts about the special production process of the famous smoked beer.

Dates and times
Every Tuesday and Thursday (except public holidays)
Start: 3 pm
Duration approx. 2 h

Information and booking

Fiery evening - 4-course menu with fire show

Enjoy an evening that will appeal to all the senses. A "fiery" 4-course castle menu will be served in the knights' halls, a fire show lasting around a quarter of an hour will enchant you in the castle forecourt and, after dessert, the fire tongs punch in front of an open fire will provide cosy warmth and relaxation under the protection of the thick historic castle walls.

Dates 2024:

28.03.2024
12.04.2024
19.10.2024
16.11.2024
21.12.2024
05.01.2025

Price: 69.00 euros per person; with bed & breakfast: from 153 euros per person

To the booking

Evening tour: "On the road with the castle guard"

By the light of lanterns, guests experience the castle in a special atmosphere and enjoy an atmospheric walk around Abenberg Castle at night.

Dates 2024:

5 April 2024 / 8.30 pm
19 April 2024 / 8.30 pm
3 May 2024 / 8.30 pm
24 May 2024 / 8.30 pm
6 September 2024 / 8.30 pm
20 September 2024 / 8.30 pm
4 October 2024 / 8.30 pm
18 October 2024 / 8.30 pm

More information (only in German)

Bamberg as a film set

Bamberg is "great cinema". Film studios from all over the world have chosen the cathedral city as the backdrop for their productions in recent decades. The cinematic walk follows in the footsteps of the actors, directors and camera crews who stayed in the city for cult films such as "The Flying Classroom" (1973), the family hit "The Sams" (2001) or the Netflix series "The Empress" (2022). Immerse yourself in stories in front of and behind the camera, learn about the craft of filmmaking and experience Bamberg's transformation into a film-ready stage set.

Dates: every Saturday, from April to October
Registration required. Children up to the age of 18 can take part free of charge.

More information and registration

An evening of the finest culinary theatre, an opportunity for you to put your talent as a criminologist to the test. Behind the closed doors of Mafia high society, the rumour mill is boiling. Luigi da Vinci, the head of the powerful da Vinci family, has been found murdered in a sealed room at the heart of his estate. The suspects? An illustrious quartet of professional killers.

Take your place in the family and use all your criminal (or criminal?) instincts in the entertaining hunt for the culprit! During a delicious 4-course meal, the actors from Greene Entertainment stage a murder story in the historic setting of Rabenstein Castle, blurring the boundaries between fiction and reality as well as between actors and audience.

An exciting evening for guessers!

On this tour, you will gain an insight into a lesser-known part of Bamberg and learn about the character, traditions and customs of the 'city of gardeners'. Bamberg would not have become a World Heritage Site without the gardeners' area. The gardeners' area is characterised by its wide, open spaces hidden behind crouching street houses. In addition to a lot of history and traditions, there are also interesting facts to learn about today's inner-city vegetable growing.

Dates and times
every Friday from 14:30
Duration: approx. 1.5 h

Information and booking (only in German)

In the new Abenberg Castle Museum, "1000 years of castle dreams" come to life in an interactive exhibition. The castle is full of secrets just waiting to be discovered. From 28 April 2024, family tours of the castle and the new castle museum will take place on the last Sunday of every month.

Dates 2024:

28 April 2024 / 3 p.m.
26 May 2024 / 3 p.m.
30 June 2024 / 3 p.m.
28 July 2024 / 3 p.m.
25 August 2024 / 3 p.m.
29 September 2024 / 3 p.m.
27 October 2024 / 3 p.m.
24 November 2024 / 3 pm
29 December / 3 p.m.

More information (only in German)

"Light and Shadow" - 1000 Years of Bamberg City History

In this "city tour sitting down", the narrators Norbert Götz and Frederic Heisig bring Bamberg's moving history to life once again through their shadow scenes and figures. The performance venue is the small Katharinenkapelle, the oldest room in the Alte Hofhaltung on Domplatz.

Further information and tickets

Exhibition: "Your Castle Country Thuringia"

Explore the fascinating world of castles in Thuringia at the German Castle Museum at Veste Heldburg. You can marvel at the past and the current views and uses of the castles in great aerial photographs, impressive videos and exclusive exhibits from the respective castles.

More information

Exhibition: "The weapons of an imperial city"

To mark the 750th anniversary of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the special exhibition at the RothenburgMuseum vividly illustrates the confrontation between urban bourgeois and peasant and aristocratic weaponry.

At the time, "weapons" had to be understood in several senses: As an actual material weapon made of iron, but also in a figurative sense: as "weapons", so to speak, for asserting interests in the political, legal, economic and social spheres. In some cases, financial resources, legal titles and legal petitions could be more powerful than many a hand weapon.

More Information

Exhibition "Imaging the Third Dimension. Holograms and optical illusions in the Würth Collection"

The largest coherent collection of holograms, assembled by Matthias Lauk (1947-2009), has now found its way into the Würth Collection. The exhibition in the Kunsthalle Würth includes works by all international holography pioneers since its invention in the 1960s. Works by Victor Vasarely, among others, symbolise the trend-setting movements of Op Art and kinetics in this era.

Further information

‘Kids Day’ at the Sinsheim Museum of Technology

To give young museum fans an insight into the unique history of museums worldwide, there is a ‘Kids Day’ every month at the Technik Museen Sinsheim Speyer. In around four hours, the kids receive a child-friendly tour of the museum, are accompanied to lunch by an experienced member of staff and discover unimagined worlds in a documentary film in the IMAX cinema.

The Kids Day always takes place from 10 am to 2 pm. 15 children between the ages of six and twelve can take part.

More information (only in German)

Franconian theatre summer

During the summer months, the Franconian Theatre Summer presents all open-air theatre fans with high-quality drama, special music and puppet theatre, exciting solo evenings, light and airy open-air chamber operas, children's and youth theatre plays, exciting crime stories and "culinary theatre" at around 70 selected venues in Upper Franconia and beyond. In addition to idyllic castles and palaces, the venues include galleries, museums, rustic country inns and market squares. These include numerous places that are part of the Castle Route, e.g. Aufseß (Oberaufsess Castle), Bamberg, Bayreuth, Ebermannstadt, Egloffstein (castle courtyard), Forchheim, Gößweinstein (theatre cave), Kulmbach, Rentweinsdorf, Waischenfeld (Waischenfeld Castle). 

More Information

Themed tours such as "Wild Animals in Ehrenburg ..." or "Noble Childhood" in Rosenau Castle are aimed specifically at families. They are suitable for children from 7 to 14 years. Registration is required.

Dates and further information (only in German)

Exhibition: "Goya | Grosz - Dream and Reality"

The Bayreuth Art Museum is showing a major international exhibition until 13 October 2024. "Goya | Grosz - Dream and Reality" focuses on the artists Francisco de Goya and George Grosz. Their works each deal with the social and human upheavals of their time: Goya captured the atrocities of Napoleon's rule and the Spanish War of Independence in paintings, drawings and prints. George Grosz, on the other hand, shows the grimaces of the national-fascist realities of 20th century Germany. The exhibition presents paintings, drawings and prints by both artists from their creative phases in Europe and the USA. The show has been organised in collaboration with international partners and lenders from France, Italy and Germany.

More information (only in German)

Exhibition: "Gold and Damascus Steel. Blades from the Ottoman Empire"

The major summer exhibition takes visitors on a journey to the mysterious Ottoman Empire. The show "Gold and Damascus steel. Blades from the Ottoman Empire" presents highly luxurious edged weapons from private German collections. In the Ottoman Empire, these prestigious blades were an important part of the courtly costume; from the 16th century onwards, they were also coveted collector's items in Western Europe.

More information

Special exhibition "Wagner the Man"

Composer, poet, dramatist, writer, director, conductor, egomaniac, philanderer, anti-Semite, leftist, climate activist, animal lover, genius ... who was Richard Wagner really?

As part of this year's summer exhibition in the new building, the Richard Wagner Museum is attempting to deconstruct the myth in order to get closer to Richard Wagner the man.

Further information

A new cabinet exhibition at the Bamberg Gardeners' and Horticulturalists' Museum sheds light on the history of Bamberg's art gardeners. At the centre of the show "Roses, Primroses, Carnations" is the apprentice diary of Hans Schauer, who learnt the gardener's trade from 1936 to 1938. The diary tells of everyday life during training, the weather conditions, the plants grown and their distribution. A visit to the cabinet exhibition can be combined with the themed tour "Erlebnis Gärtnerstadt", which provides an insight into tradition and customs. The tour also includes a visit to the Niedermaier organic nursery and the gardener and horticulturist museum, including the variety garden.

More information (only in German)

Exhibition "Surrealism - worlds in dialogue"

To mark the 100th anniversary of the Surrealist Manifesto, the exhibition in the Vogelmann Art Gallery brings together works from the 1920s to the present day. Paintings, objects, photographs and films demonstrate the unbroken relevance of Surrealism. Avant-garde artists such as René Magritte, Max Ernst and Salvador Dalí enter into a dialogue with contemporary positions such as Sarah Lucas, Penny Slinger, Cindy Sherman and Marco Brambilla.

The exhibition has been organised in cooperation with the Institute for Cultural Exchange in Tübingen and can be seen for the first time worldwide at the Kunsthalle Vogelmann. Further information

Mozart Festival Schwetzingen

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart has visited Schwetzingen three times. Nowadays, every year, on three consecutive weekends in September and October, the beautiful venues of the Rokokotheater and the round halls of the palace are all about the composer from Salzburg and his contemporaries. In "Rokokotheatre" and "Zirkelsäle" of Schwetzingen palace.

Further information

Heidelberg Wine Village

The Heidelberg Wine Festival offers the ideal opportunity to get to know Heidelberg's culinary delights in addition to the city's sights. In the heart of the old town on Karlsplatz and the castle, enjoy a choice selection of wines and the varied regional cuisine with musical accompaniment. Immerse yourself in the unique flair of history, tradition and romance in a convivial atmosphere.

Further information

"Enjoy Jazz" Festival

Whenever the nights get longer, ENJOY JAZZ, the international festival for "jazz and other things", brings exciting new music to Mannheim and Heidelberg. The secret of its success: it is a lively festival that celebrates the joy of enjoying music. The top-class festival programme constantly explores the boundaries of the genre and has made ENJOY JAZZ one of the most important jazz festivals in the world.

Further information

Nuremberg Pop Festival

The Nürnberg Pop Festival is southern Germany's largest club and showcase festival. Concerts take place as part of the festival at various cultural venues such as churches, museums, clothing shops, record shops, on rooftops, public squares and, of course, in clubs and cultural centres. This is where the music world and music fans come together to exchange ideas and quench their thirst for good humour and musical enjoyment. The accompanying Pop Conference offers a wide range of panel discussions, lectures and workshops on all aspects of the music industry and culture.

More information

Rothenburg Autumn Hiking Week

Every year in springtime and autumn the hiking weeks in Rothenburg offer you active recovery in the midst of nature - from guided hiking tours up to a varied programme that really offers something for everyone. Each hike stands under an interesting topic and is accompanied by an experienced leader and commented with a lot of inside knowledge. By the way: the hikes are all free of charge!

Further information

Elector's tour

Schwetzingen Palace still characterises the cityscape today. The summer residence still determines the structure of the town centre. The tour stops at several buildings from the court period and illustrates life in the summer residence as well as the impact of the "Electoral Court" economic factor on the market town of Schwetzingen.

On Monday, 4 November 2024, the Elector's name day, the tour ends in the municipal exhibition "CabinetT 1724 - 2024 / Electoral Museum Room" in the Karl-Wörn-Haus.

Long Night of Culture

Every two years, the ‘Long Night of Culture’ offers a colourful and diverse cultural programme for all age groups in Heilbronn's city centre. With free admission, Heilbronn institutions and cultural players present a diverse programme at various locations. Admission its free.

More information

Rothenburg Week of Jewish Culture

Experience Jewish culture and history, enter into dialogue, get to know new things, learn exciting things, remember the past and encounter the present. ‘Le`Chajim - Auf das Leben!’, the Rothenburg Week of Jewish Culture, offers an extensive programme: lectures, films, excursions, concerts and workshops. Participants include Prof Dr Jan Philipp Reemtsma (Hamburg), the Nuremberg journalist and author Steffen Radlmaier, the academic director of the Alice Salomon Archive Prof Dr Sabine Toppe (Berlin) and the author Katja Hildebrand.

The week takes place every year around 22 October, a day of remembrance for the city's Jewish residents. Unless otherwise stated, the events are free of charge.

More information (only in German)

Hohenzollern Day under the motto "Feasting and mining"

Colourful activities, special guided tours, an open family workshop and information about the Hohenzollern rule in Cadolzburg.
Bird of prey demonstrations by the Schreyer falconry from Unterschleißheim will take place in the outer bailey at 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm.

The Castle Experience Museum is open until 6 pm on Hohenzollern Day. Participation in the special guided tours costs 3 euros per person (+ admission); all other offers are included in the admission price. Admission to the outer bailey, including bird of prey demonstrations, is free.

Sinsheim Autumn Market

Traditionally, the Wirtschaftsforum Sinsheim e.V. invites you to the Sinsheim Autumn on the second Sunday in October.

Then the city centre becomes a market mile with a comprehensive range of pumpkins, cheese, sausages, spices, fruit, vegetables, wines, sparkling wine and non-alcoholic drinks, but also textiles and basketry. Autumn market visitors can enjoy traditional onion tart and new wine, tarte flambée, a variety of pizza baguettes and other delicacies. A car show on Burgplatz, an art mile in the avenue and the open Sunday round off the varied programme.

Further information

Crime Dinner

An extraordinary evening à la Edgar Wallace with at least one corpse. The spirit of England in the early 1960s wafts through the room - because what unfolds during the course of the delicious 4-course menu foreshadows mysterious entanglements that could prove fatal for at least one of those present ....

Start / Admission 18:30
Ticket incl. absinthe aperitif in the hall, 4-course menu & play
Price for each person attending 99 euros plus one-off booking fee of 9.90 euros / booking

Dates and booking

Carl Theodor 3.0 - Facets of an elector

In Schwetzingen, the former summer capital of the Electoral Palatinate, a symposium will take place from 17-19 October 2024 to mark the 300th birthday of Elector Carl Theodor von Pfalz-Bayern in the south circle of the palace. Renowned academics and young researchers will give interesting lectures in a historical setting. The topics range from music and a school for the blind to Carl Theodor and the dinosaurs. The conference is open to all interested parties and participation is free of charge.

A co-operation between the State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-Württemberg, the City of Schwetzingen and Kiel University.

NUEJAZZ Festival

The festival presents the cross-genre richness of jazz. Artists from rock, pop, electro, hip-hop and others are in the program, as well as artists dedicated to the traditional varieties of jazz.

Further information

3rd Weinsberg wine hike

This wine hike combines convivial wine tasting in the fresh air, exercise that is manageable for all ages, and views over picturesque wine landscapes. Participants can design their tour to suit their individual needs. There is a choice of circular routes ranging from two to six kilometers in length. Signs along the way provide information about wine and vines.

Selected wines and sparkling wines from the Weinsberg wineries, coffee and cake, hearty dishes and delicacies invite you to taste them. Further information

Eberbach Apple Day

The traditional Apple Day in Eberbach takes place every year on the 3rd Sunday in October. The Apple Day weekend begins on Saturday with the children's afternoon around Lindenplatz. The unique games are always centred around apples. On Sunday, the shops in Eberbach will be open from 12:30-17:30. On both days, visitors can expect a variety of apple-related offers and musical treats from live bands.

Further information

Exhibition: "1000 years ago | Life at the court of Cunegonde and Henry II."

To mark the 1000th anniversary of the death of Emperor Henry II in 2024, the Bamberg Historical Museum invites you to travel back in time to the year 1024. The special exhibition ‘1000 years ago | Life at the court of Cunegonde and Henry II’ focuses not only on the emperor, but also on his wife Cunegonde and the people around her.

Guests experience everyday life in the imperial palace as well as in the city, in the monasteries and in the countryside. Scenographic displays and digital applications bring the period around 1000 to life. Numerous hands-on activities offer the chance to feel the texture of medieval clothing or the weight of the armour of the time.

The exhibition offers a comprehensive insight into the reign, military campaigns and court behaviour of Empress Kunigunde and Emperor Henry II, whose influence was of fundamental importance for Bamberg.

More information (only in German)

During the vacation activity days at Veste Coburg, the young participants immerse themselves in the worlds of knowledge of past and present times. They use and explore their own senses: feeling, seeing, tasting, smelling and hearing.

The program includes:

• Games, fun and movement in the castle courtyards
• Short impulses in the exhibition rooms
• Sensory stations to participate and discover
• Planet-Creative-Workshop with different creative techniques

Costs: 30,- Euro

Age: 8 to 12 years

Further information

Research project: "Prima Klima - The museum is becoming more environmentally friendly"

From November 2024, a research project that combines environmental protection with traditional museum work will be presented in the STUDIO of the Veste Coburg art collections. This is because saturated salt solutions can be used to air-condition museum display cases sustainably and cost-effectively.

300 years of Elector Carl Theodor: Illumination of the castle

Illumination of the city façade; the palace tells the life story of Elector Carl Theodor.

Rothenburg fairy tale magic with fairy tale forest

The Fairy Tale Magic offers a diverse program around the theme of fairy tales and legends, which is aimed at both children and adults. And what better place than Rothenburg's romantic Old Town to make many a fairy tale come true....

For more information, click here.

Medieval and arts and crafts market

The arts and crafts market in the historic old town sets special accents. A romantic medieval market around the collegiate church offers a glimpse into a bygone era. The historical hustle and bustle around the collegiate church tells of honourable crafts, proud guilds, medieval camp life and typical dishes.

You can get all further information here

300 years of Carl Theodor: Exhibition: "CabinetT 1724-2024 | Kurfürstliche Museumsstube"

For the cabinet exhibition "CabinetT 1724 - 2024 / Kurfürstliche Museumsstube", the Karl-Wörn-Haus is once again opening its doors to honour Elector Carl Theodor on the occasion of his 300th birthday. Within the exhibition, the biography of the Elector, his life and work, is told by means of selected exhibits. Many of these exhibits are new acquisitions and rediscoveries from recent years that have never been shown before. The major highlight: the history of the electoral summer residence of Schwetzingen and its electors is brought to life with a new multimedia installation!

Open: Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays

28. LesArt Ansbach

The LesArt Festival of the Margravial City of Ansbach is an event for passionate book lovers. Its special charm lies in the encounter with contemporary authors lies its special charm.

Further information

Lauf Literature Days

For one week between the beginning and middle of November, renowned German-language authors from Germany and abroad, many of whom have won prestigious prizes, will be presenting their latest works, looking forward to an interested audience and promising unique literary encounters.

Further information (only in German)

Electoral coffee parlour in the Kurfürstenstube

Coffee, tea and chocolate were a luxury at the electoral court. Learn interesting facts about these culinary delights on a short tour of the city. Finally, savour these delicacies in the Elector's parlour, just like at court. Including coffee (a cup of coffee and a piece of cake).

Dates:
03.11.2024, 3 p.m.
17.12.2024, 3 p.m.

Starting point: St Pankratius Church forecourt (opposite the tourist information centre)
Can also be booked for groups on request.

Booking (only in German)

International Film Festival Mannheim-Heidelberg (IFFMH)

The International Film Festival Mannheim-Heidelberg (IFFMH) discovers and promotes young film artists from all over the world. The festival is a unique platform for cultural, political and social dialogue through the art of film. And it has been doing so since 1952, making the IFFMH the most traditional film festival in Germany after the Berlinale.

The programme brings together the most promising talents, the most daring innovators and a new look at the history of cinema every year. And last but not least, there is an extensive programme for children.

More information

Wintertime at Eyrichshof Castle

Glittering lights and starry magic immerse Eyrichshof Castle and Park in a pre-Christmas atmosphere. Over 120 exhibitors will be presenting their range of decorations, fashion, jewellery and handicrafts. Visitors can also look forward to a colourful supporting programme of art and culture, and there are also exciting things for young visitors to experience.

Further information (only in German)

Bayreuth Jazz November

 With the Jazz-November, a top-class music festival takes place every year, which makes the gray month shine!

In addition to international greats, newcomers and musical insider tips get the opportunity to present themselves to the audience.

Further information

Driller's Market

Colourful funfair rides, atmosphere and good mood in the festival tent - as always the Driller's Market in Neckargemünd is being longingly awaited. It is the last festival in the festival-cycle in the region. Hearty to rock-like music and a varied programme provide for the best funfair-mood of young and old.

Further information (only in German)

Steammodel Days Lauf

On the former factory site of the industrial museum, steam enthusiasts and tinkerers from all over the German-speaking world show historical and self-built models in operation. A unique exhibition in Bavaria with numerous demonstrations and hands-on activities for children.

Further information

Guided tour in dialogue: CabinetT 1724-2024 | Electoral Preciosic Cabinet

A dialogue-based guided tour through the exhibition in the Karl-Wörn-Haus, Museum of the City of Schwetzingen

Speakers: Dr Barbara Gilsdorf (Head of Cultural Affairs, City of Schwetzingen), Joachim Kresin (Head of Schwetzingen City Archive), Lars Maurer (Head of Schwetzingen City Museum)

Dates:

15.11.2024, 5 p.m.
06.12.2024, 5 p.m.
02.01.2025, 5 p.m.

Admission is free.

Where else could you experience and enjoy the flavorful diversity of a Scotch whisky better than in a stylish castle ambience? Jürgen Stark, a long-standing member of the oldest and largest whisky club in Germany and owner of the Whisky Lounge in Heroldsberg, takes you into the world of Scotch whisky in an exclusive setting.

Accompanied by an exquisite 5-course castle menu, you will receive lots of information about the production of Scotch whiskies in the various regions in the magnificently decorated Armory Hall and have the opportunity to taste rarer and older whiskies in different bottlings and flavors of the respective latitudes according to the motto of the evening "Rare & Old". A highlight for all the senses!

Price: from 109 euros per person, limited number of participants.

Dates and booking (only in German)

Christmas Market Roth

The smell of mulled wine, Christmas music and a festive atmosphere: from Thursday to Sunday, numerous associations and organisations from Rother present themselves in lovingly decorated stalls. Of course, a visit from the Rother Christkind is not to be missed!

You can get all the information here

Winterwonderland - the magical zoo of lights

The Winter Wonderland offers over 120 life-size animals and other impressive light objects around Faber-Castell Castle. Within five months, the attractions were created by hand by stage builders using over 500,000 LED lights. Experience the largest light zoo in Germany!

Open daily (except 24 and 25 December)

Heidelberg Christmas Market

Every year, at 5.00 pm, on the last Wednesday in November, the Christ child solemny opens the Christmas Market at the marketplace.

Over 140 stands at Heidelberg's large and small places, offer an endless variety of what makes the season so special. 

Further information

Heidelberg Winter Woods

At the Heidelberg Winterwäldchen on Kornmarkt, illuminated fir trees and pagoda tents enchant visitors. The event continues beyond Christmas until New Year's Day; the stalls are closed on Christmas Eve.

Further information

Bayreuth Christmas Market

At the Christkindlesmarkt and along festively decorated streets and squares in Bayreuth's city centre, visitors can stroll to their heart's content in the Christmas atmosphere and marvel at the festive illumination of the over seven-kilometre-long chain of lights.

Further information

Heidelberg Ice Rink at "Karlsplatz"

One of the most beautiful open-air ice rinks in Germany is set up on Karlsplatz in Heidelberg's Old Town. With Christmas music playing, locals and guests glide across the ice against the romantic backdrop of the world-famous castle.

Further information

Christmassy Bayreuth Tour

The Christmas city walk in German language takes you through the historic city centre to the New Palace with Palace Garden, to the Margravial Opera House and to Haus Wahnfried, among other places.

Meeting place: Tourist Information, Opernstraße 22
Duration:         approx. two hours
Dates:             25.11. to 23.12.2024 and 26.12.2024 to 06.01.2025, daily at 10.30 a.m.

Further information

Mannheim Fairytale Forest

In the middle of Mannheim city centre, Paradeplatz is transformed into a fairytale forest with lovingly designed fairytale houses and figures.

In addition to several sales huts, there are also two stages offering a varied programme for children, including a singing Father Christmas with his live reindeer at the weekends.

Further information

Christmas market on the Capuchin Planks

At the Christmas market on the Kapuzinerplanken - parallel to the popular "Planken" shopping mile - exhibitors present traditional crafts, unusual works of art and original gift ideas in snow-white tents.

This special Christmas market also offers the finest culinary temptations. Further information

Christmas market at the water tower

Mannheim's Christmas market at the water tower is one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Germany. In the heart of the square city, you can stroll with family and friends through Hirtenpfad and Engelsgasse and enjoy the diverse offerings of the approximately 150 lovingly decorated huts around Mannheim's landmark.

Further information (only in German)

Christmas Market Heilbronn

The Christmas market is dedicated to the "Käthchen of Heilbronn" with Christmas "Käthchen products" such as Christmas stollen or mulled wine, Käthchen Christmas decorations and Käthchen Christmas lighting.

For the second time, the sustainable ‘Käthchen artificial ice rink’ will be set up on Kiliansplatz against the backdrop of St Kilian's Church.

Further information

Ansbach Christmas Market

Baroque facades and the two large churches form the atmospheric and distinctive backdrop for the Christmas market on Montgelas-Platz and Martin-Luther-Platz in the middle of the old town. The old town and its centuries-old traditions in a modern form. 

Further information

Bamberg Christmas Market

At Christmas time, Maximiliansplatz in Bamberg's pedestrian zone is transformed into a pre-Christmas festive square. In the middle of the old town with its illuminated and decorated stores and streets, there is the smell of roast sausage and roasted almonds, mulled wine and gingerbread. Toys, glass baubles and fine handicrafts can also be found as practical things for the Christmas season.

Further information

Electoral Christmas Market

The Electoral Christmas Market is known far beyond the region for its atmospheric ambience. In the 2024 theme year, Prince-Elector Carl Theodor will of course open his Christmas market "in person". Over 40 artisans will be exhibiting their Christmas wares in the festively illuminated cour d'honneur of the palace. A wide range of food and drink awaits visitors on the palace square.

More information (only in German)

Lauf Christmas Market

The atmospherically decorated stall city is set up around the lovingly designed nativity scene on the Upper Market Square. The accompanying programme includes performances for young and old, including a visit by Nuremberg's Christ Child, guided tours of the historic rock cellars and an Advent raffle.

Further information (only in German)

Christmasmagic in Schwäbisch Hall

One of the most beautiful market squares in southern Germany and St. Michael's Church with its imposing flight of steps form the historical backdrop for Schwäbisch Hall's Christmas market. Lovingly decorated huts, many different types of mulled wine, Christmas treats and handicrafts delight visitors.

The supporting programme includes activities for children, Christmas music performances and public themed city tours.

Program and further information

Forchheim - Christmas Market

During the Christmas magic around the Kaiserpfalz, the imaginative Christmas lighting bathes around 25 small Christmas stalls around the historic Kaiserpfalz in an enchanting light.

The programme includes musical performances, the digital Advent calendar, guided Advent tours and a Christmas lottery.

To the Christmas market programme

Christmas Market Nuremberg

At one of Germany's oldest Christmas markets, traditional goods such as handmade Christmas decorations and culinary delicacies are still on sale in 180 wooden stalls on the main market square.

A Christmas town especially for children is set up on Hans-Sachs-Platz. The market of Nuremberg's 14 twin towns brings international flair to the Christkindlesmarkt. Nuremberg's churches and museums invite you to Christmas concerts, guided tours and exhibitions with a colourful programme.

Opening hours:
Mon - Sun: 10 am to 9 pm, Christmas Eve: 10 am to 2 pm.

Further information

Christmas Market Stein

Experience the magic of the stalls and Christmas flair on Mecklenburger Platz.

Christmas Market

The Gundelsheim Christmas market traditionally opens its doors on the first weekend of Advent under the motto "Enjoyment, culture and old town flair". The romantic old town is bathed in festive lights, you can buy handmade items at the market stalls, regional food and drink will delight your senses and a diverse cultural programme awaits you. The special flair of the Gundelsheim Christmas market is enhanced by the extraordinary atmosphere in the old town and the accompanying cultural programme.

More information

Advent Market Kulmbach

In addition to the "magical hustle and bustle" in the old town of Kulmbach, there is an arts and crafts market in the rooms of the castle estate in Waaggasse and the Advent market of the Diakonie at the "Alte Villa".

Further information

Eberbach Christmas market on the Neuer Markt

Eberbach's Christmas Market around the New Market.

Further information

Arts and Crafts Christmas Market

At this market, artists and craftspeople such as candle makers, glass blowers and wood carvers offer exclusively home-made products and demonstrate how they are made at their stands. The variety on offer ranges from musical instruments to calligraphy and woodturning.

The market is accompanied by jugglers and minstrels, the baroque organ is played and children can bake Christmas biscuits.

The venue is the area around the Hospitalkirche, Am Spitalbach 8.

Further information (only in German)

Mosbach Christmas Market

Starlights in the trees and in the pedestrian zone herald the most beautiful time of the year. Mosbach's picturesque old town centre smells of aniseed, gingerbread and mulled wine, oranges, candles and fir branches. Lovingly decorated huts and stalls are set up around the large festively decorated Christmas tree, framed by the town hall with its towering spire and a veritable parade of medieval half-timbered houses. There are arts and crafts, creative and culinary
culinary delights, music and lots of romantic Mosbach flair.

On Saturday, 14 December 2024 and 21 December 2024, Mosbach's specialist shops open their doors for the long shopping night.

Further information

Old German Christmas Market

The Wimpfener Kaiserpfalz forms the background for one of the most traditional Christmas markets in Germany. Its beginnings date back to 1487, when Emperor Friedrich III granted the city the privilege of holding a market before Christmas, the Katharinenmarkt.

In the narrow alleys of the old town, about 120 stalls offer handicraft, high-quality goods for the upcoming festival.

The Christmas market takes place on the first three Advent weekends:

- 01.12.-03.12.

- 08.12.-10.12.

- 15.12.-17.12.

Further information

Advent Market in the "Sand"

The small, atmospheric Advent market takes place around the medieval Elisabethenkirche church in Obere Sandstraße, in the oldest part of Bamberg.

Against this beautiful backdrop, around 30 exhibitors present their selected goods, from regional products to handicrafts.

Further information

Old-Rothenburg Christmas Market

At the end of the year, the city for romantics presents itself from its most beautiful side. Embedded in the picturesque scenery between the town hall and St. Jakob, the Reiterlesmarkt is considered one of the most charming Christmas markets in Germany.

Further information

Coburg Christmas Market

During Advent, Coburg's market square is transformed into a small, glowing city of stalls, a kind of pre-Christmas oasis.

Decorated wooden stalls, fireplaces, a historic children's carousel and the covered meeting place around the Prince Albert Monument attract many guests, especially in the evening. There are pre-Christmas delights to discover such as winter teas, sheepskin products, Christmas decorations, pottery or beeswax candles. Regional products are offered at most of the stalls.

Further information

Christmas Market at Dippach Castle Ruins

The romantic Christmas market in the historic walls of the Dippach castle ruins has become a real insider tip in recent years.

Christmas at the fortress

For the first time, the Kronach Christmas Market will be held at the Rosenberg Fortress in the central moat. Here visitors can enjoy delicacies from regional and national exhibitors and and purchase a gift or two.

Further information (only in German)

Christmas Market Sinsheim

Christmas magic at the Kirchplatz - Christmas shopping in the city centre until 8.00 pm. Every year it smells like fir trees, Christmas cookies, mulled wine, cinnamon and cloves around the evangelic town church and in the streets of Sinsheim during the first advent weekend.

Further information

Advent Market Sesslach

The traditional Advent market takes place on Marktplatz and Maximiliansplatz in the centre of Seßlach. The retailers in the old town centre open their shops during the market and decorate them for Christmas. Local businesses and selected stalls offer Christmas delicacies.

Further information (only in German)

Castle Christmas Abenberg

The Christmas market takes place around the thousand-year-old Abenberg Castle, whose silhouette framed by lights is visible far into the country. The highlight of the supporting programme is the annual visit of the Original Nuremberg Christmas Child.

Further information

Advent Market with Handicrafts

The romantic Advent market tkes place in the historical town centre of Cadolzburg, supplemented by an artisan market in the atmospheric backdrop of the outer castle courtyard of the Hohenzollern Fortress Cadolzburg.

From 4.15 pm, visitors can stroll through the illuminated inner courtyard of Cadolzburg Castle free of charge. The adventure museum opens on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last admission at 3.15 p.m.), admission ticket required.

Further information (only in German)

Guided tour: Electoral Christmas traditions

Embark on a pre-Christmas city tour in the footsteps of the electoral court. What was there back then? Where do Christmas traditions come from? And how do we still celebrate them today?

Dates:

Sat, 30.11.2024 / 5 p.m.
Sat, 07.12.2024 / 5 pm
Sat, 14 Dec 2024 / 5 p.m.
Sat, 21 Dec 2024 / 27 pm

The guided tours can also be booked individually for groups on request.

Booking

Forchheim - digital Advent calendar at the Imperial Palace

The digital Advent calendar on the façade of the Imperial Palace is impressive and huge. Every day at 6.30 pm, a window is opened and one of Forchheim's three Christmas angels draws the daily winner.

On Christmas Eve, a festive stage programme begins at 11 a.m., the main winner is drawn from the lottery pot at 12 noon, before the light show, including the opening of the last window, concludes at 5.15 p.m.

Further information

Wolframs-Eschenbach: Nativity Scene Trail in the Old Town

The Nativity Trail winds its way through the entire old town to the historic city gates. Numerous stores and private individuals display lovingly designed and illuminated nativity scenes in their windows.

More information

Christmas Market with Crib Exhibition

More than 30 stalls are set up for the Christmas market on the market square of the half-timbered town. Christmas goods and gifts are on offer. It smells of Christmas treats such as mulled wine and roasted almonds.

The supporting programme includes a performance by the Ebern music school and a nativity scene exhibition in the Raiffeisenbank hall. The children can look forward to a visit from St Nicholas.

Further information

Pink Monday on the Market Square

At this cult Christmas market event, Heidelberg's market square shines completely in pink for one evening. Residents and guests meet with the queer community to celebrate together.

The Heiliggeistkirche (Church of the Holy Spirit) opens its doors in the evening and, out of solidarity and as a sign of tolerance, shines in bright pink not only on the outside but also on the inside. Admission is free.

Further information

Christmas Market

Atmospheric Christmas market in the historic old town, with an attractive supporting programme, arts and crafts, culinary delights and Advent sounds.

Further information (only in German)

Christmas Market Kirchberg

The Kirchberg Christmas market is one of the oldest and most atmospheric in Hohenlohe. Every year on the 2nd weekend in Advent, it fills the "little town" of Kirchberg - within the town walls, in the castle courtyard and on the streets - with the atmosphere of Advent. Against the backdrop of Kirchberg Castle, around 70 market stalls offer goods and treats. The supporting programme includes performances by brass bands and choral societies and an Advent concert in the Protestant town church. And on Saturday, St Nicholas and the Christ Child will even drop by!

Open on Saturday from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Further information (only in German)

Christmas Market Maroldsweisach

A small, romantic Christmas market around the church gets visitors in the mood for the holiday.

Heldburg christmas market

The traditional Christmas market takes place on the market square in Heldburg. Regional delicacies, traditional crafts and Christmas decorations are offered against the backdrop of the medieval town centre, including the late Gothic town church ‘Zu unserer lieben Frauen’ and the town hall.

Further information

Trombone quartet OPUS 4

The quartet of trombonists from the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra was founded in 1994. The ensemble's extensive repertoire includes wind music from five centuries. In addition to original compositions from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the programme also includes arranged works as well as premieres and first performances of compositions written especially for this ensemble.

Like the Berliner Philharmoniker, the trombonists play on German instruments (Kruspe trombones), giving the trombone section a typical, homogeneous, soft sound that is clearly different from the "Americanised" brass sections of today's orchestras. Since October 2012, the ensemble has had a complete set of baroque trombones from the Jürgen Voigt company in Markneukirchen (on loan). Numerous concerts in Germany and Europe bear witness to the activity of the trombone quartet.

More information about the ensemble / the event

Intercultural Crafts Christmas Market

This Advent market takes place in the historic surroundings of the Oberer Stephansberg, in the Johanniskapelle chapel with its romantic outdoor area, in the neighbouring St. Johannes kindergarten and in the Stephanshof courtyard opposite.

On both days, the sophisticated arts and crafts on offer will be framed by a varied intercultural and child-friendly programme, including a live nativity scene. Exceptional childcare is offered for children. Further information

Waldenburg Mountain Christmas

The charming Old Town is the setting for the romantic Christmas market with over 40 lovingly decorated market stands. Friends from the partner town Sierck-les-Bains/France and from the towns Waldenburg/Switzerland and Waldenburg/Saxony please the visitors with regional delicacies. In the town hall the basket maker and the coupler present their skills and their handcrafted works.

Further information (only in German)

Wolframs-Eschenbach: Christmas Market "Sternlesmarkt"

Let yourself be enchanted by our stall city in the churchyard in front of the Liebfrauenmünster and the craftsmanship in the Bürgersaal at the Christmas market of the associations. Advent melodies and small concerts as well as the living nativity scene will get you in the mood for Christmas!

More information

Christmas Market Langenzenn

The Old Town smells like roasted almonds, gingerbread and mulled wine in all variations. Small, festively decorated and illuminated stalls line the streets. A reflective and pre-Christmassy programme frames the market. Besides that the numerous light chains a magical atmosphere in the historical backdrop.

Further information (only in German)

The Blue Night in Nuremberg

Nuremberg and its institutions for art and culture, museums, churches and clubs invite you to the Blue Night® with light installations, music and performances.

The Blue Night takes place at various locations throughout the Old Town, which is completely bathed in blue light.

Further information

Medieval Market Ebern

Medieval life and colour with craft, camp life, programme for children, dance, music and fire show.

Further information (only in German)

Rothenburg Imperial City Festival

The Imperial City Festival is one of the highlights of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The entire history of the town comes to life - brought to life by about a thousand participants. Already on Friday evening there is a big torchlight procession of the history groups to the market place.

New in 2024: For the first time, “Freie Reichsstädter zu Rothenburg ob der Tauber e.V.” will re-enact a historical battle on the ice meadow in the Taubertal on early Sunday afternoon under the direction of Christoph Korwitz.

For more information click here

15/02/2024 "The end of the rain"

23/02/2024 "The bug"

29/02/2024 "Three is upside down"

18/04/2024 "The Reichsbüger"

28/06/2024 "Mirandolina"

28/06/2024 "The Little Knight Trenk" (young BLB)

Information and booking

Long night of culture

On this evening, a unique atmosphere enchants the city, merchants open their doors with exclusive offers until 11 pm and many cultural program points show the diversity of Stein.

Further information