8 Must-Visit October Events in Germany
October in Germany is a month filled with vibrant celebrations and cultural events that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Oktoberfests, a cinephile, or simply looking to immerse yourself in German culture, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll highlight eight unmissable October events in Germany.
1. Oktoberfests in North Rhine-Westphalia (Throughout October):
Category: Festivals
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- While Munich’s Oktoberfest might be the most famous, North Rhine-Westphalia offers its own exciting beer-drinking events throughout the month.
- RÜ Oktoberfest in Essen/Mühlheim: A month-long extravaganza with illuminated tents, live music, and König Ludwig Hell beer.
- Münster’s Oktoberfest: Known as one of the largest Oktoberfests north of Munich, it offers traditional games, vegan options, and live music.
- Xanten’s Oktoberfest: Running from September 29th to October 15th, it offers unique themes each Sunday, making it a must-visit event.
2. Cannstatter Volksfest, Stuttgart (September 22nd – October 8th):
Category: Folk Festival
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- The Cannstatter Volksfest, or “Wasen,” is one of Germany’s largest folk festivals, taking place in Stuttgart’s Bad Cannstatt district.
- Featuring 320 amusement rides and stalls, the festival kicks off with a grand parade showcasing regional traditions.
3. FILMFEST HAMBURG (September 28th – October 7th):
Category: Film Festival
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- Hamburg hosts one of Germany’s premier film festivals, showcasing diverse national and international feature and documentary films.
- Attendees can discuss films at the FILMFEST BAR/Kasematte20 every night during the festival.
4. German Unity Day Celebrations, Hamburg (October 2nd to 3rd):
Category: National Celebration
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- Hamburg hosts this year’s official celebrations for the Day of German Unity under the theme “Opening Horizons.”
- The festivities include presentations by Germany’s federal states, live music, artistic performances, and a dedicated children’s area.
5. Festival of Lights Berlin (October 6th to 15th):
Category: Light Festival
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- Berlin’s landmarks transform into dazzling displays during the Festival of Lights.
- Bebelplatz and Potsdamer Platz are notable highlights where visitors can enjoy tailored light art projections set to music.
6. Zwiebelmarkt, Weimar (October 13th to 15th):
Category: Food and Cultural Festival
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- Weimar celebrates the humble onion with hundreds of stalls showcasing various onion products, craft stalls, and local food.
- The festival offers a lively atmosphere with music, street artists, and the crowning of the Queen of the Onion Market.
7. Bremen Freimarkt (October 13th to 29th):
Category: Folk Festival
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- Established in 1035, the Bremen Freimarkt is one of Germany’s oldest folk festivals, featuring amusement rides and traditional treats.
- This historic market near the main train station provides a unique blend of tradition and fun.
8. Frankfurt Book Fair (October 18th to 22nd):
Category: Literary Event
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- The Frankfurt Book Fair is the world’s largest trade fair for books, attracting authors, publishers, and literary enthusiasts.
- This year’s fair marks its 75th edition and highlights Slovenia as the Guest of Honour, celebrating its literary heritage.
October in Germany offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, from the traditional Oktoberfests in North Rhine-Westphalia to the celebration of literature at the Frankfurt Book Fair. Make sure to explore these exciting events.
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