Germany's Holiday Roundup! Exploring Germany's Nine Biggest Annual Events | Berlin International Beer Festival, St. Martin's Day

Join the festivities in Germany at the right time! Throughout the year, Germany boasts numerous distinctive traditional holidays and celebrations. These festivals not only showcase the rich German culture but also offer tourists a fantastic opportunity to immerse themselves in German traditions~ Let's explore the festival calendar for the whole year of Germany together and discover these amazing events!

January 6: Epiphany
Mid-February: Carnival
Late March/Early April: Easter
May 1: May Day
August: Berliner Bierfestival
Late September to Early October: Oktoberfest
October 3: German Unity Day
November 11: St. Martin's Day
December 25: Christmas Day

Every February, Germany hosts grand carnival celebrations throughout the country. Carnival originates from Catholicism, symbolizing the last revelry before Lent. The most famous carnivals in Germany are held in Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz. The streets are filled with people in colorful costumes, creating a joyful and crazy atmosphere! Parade participants play various roles, accompanied by music and dance, throwing candy and small gifts to the audience. If you want to experience the passion and vitality of Germany, Carnival is definitely an unmissable event.

Besides religious ceremonies, Germany also has many interesting folk customs for Easter. The week before Easter is "Holy Week," and many churches will hold special worship services. On Easter Day, every household decorates Easter eggs and prepares festive food. A uniquely German egg-hunting activity is very popular all over the country. Children search for chocolate eggs hidden by rabbits in gardens or parks. Visiting German-themed amusement parks or castles can also bring you a strong sense of Easter atmosphere.

Beltane, originally a spring festival of the ancient Celts and Germanic people, symbolizes the arrival of spring and the revival of all things. It gradually evolved into International Labour Day, with many German cities holding open-air music concerts, rallies, and parades on this day. People usually take advantage of the good weather to have picnics and outings in nature with friends and family, welcoming the arrival of spring.

Held in Berlin every early August, the beer festival is claimed to be the world's longest. The event takes place along the famous Karl-Marx-Allee, stretching 2 kilometers long, and gathers beer stalls from Germany and all over the world. Besides tasting fine wine and delicacies, there are also music performances, parades and other rich programs. Beer lovers shouldn't miss it!

Germany's Beer Festival! Held in Munich for 16 days from late September to early October every year, attracting millions of tourists. There are many large beer tents at the venue, providing local specialties of Munich beer. Tourists can wear traditional Bavarian costumes and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere. ~ Besides drinking beer, there are various amusement rides and music performances. This is an indispensable experience for feeling the German traditional folk customs.

This is a national holiday established to commemorate the formal reunification of East and West Germany. On this day in 1990, the Treaty on German Unification came into effect, with the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) joining the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany), ending the history of German division. Celebrations were held throughout the country, including an official ceremony in Berlin, concerts in various locations, fireworks, and more. For many Germans, it was an inspiring and momentous occasion.

This festival commemorates the good deeds of Saint Martin, a Roman soldier. Legend has it that he once shared his cloak with a beggar to keep him warm. Every November 11th, German children carry homemade lanterns and follow knights dressed as Saint Martin in a parade, singing traditional Saint Martin songs. After the parade, everyone gathers around bonfires to warm themselves, sharing food. Many places also stage plays about Saint Martin's story. The Saint Martin's Day conveys the spirit of sharing and caring for others.

In German cities during December, Christmas markets are everywhere. The most famous ones are in Nuremberg, Cologne, and Dresden. Stalls sell traditional handicrafts and Christmas decorations; the aromas of cinnamon and gingerbread fill the air. Sip on a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate and feel the festive atmosphere.~ Visiting Christmas markets has become an important activity for many Germans and tourists to celebrate the holidays.

That's about several important festivals in Germany. Besides visiting attractions, you can also choose to visit during these important days, and you'll see a different side of Germany! There are other travel information available for you here~.