Event highlights
A patchwork of cultures and peculiarities, Brussels hosts a wide array of events, from traditional cavalcades to world music festivals and celebrations of light and fireworks. If you are lucky enough to arrive in Hamburg when the city is preparing for one of these feasts, you are up for a treat. Take a close look at this overview of the most important events in the city to make sure you don’t miss out on anything.
MOVE THE NORTH
Throughout the year
Fancy a cultural festival? This one is the one to watch out for! Move the North connects the three northern cities of Hamburg, Copenhagen and Malmö through a varied cultural programme that is held throughout the entire year in different venues across the city.
HAMBURG DOM FUN FAIR
Spring, summer and winter
Fancy vintage carousels, roller coaster rides and some tasty German food? Head to the Hamburg DOM which is on for 30 days every summer, winter and spring.
CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
May
Annually held in May, the Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates Hamburg’s strong ties with Japan. Not only did Germany and Japan share a strong trade connection, but Osaka is also one of Hamburg’s sister cities. That’s why since 1968, the Cherry Blossom Festival sees over 5,000 cherry trees blooming.
PORT ANNIVERSARY
Mid-May
One of the main events in Hamburg is certainly the port anniversary. The world’s largest harbour festival along the banks of the Elbe impresses with maritime parades, historic sailboats, music, food and fireworks.
ALTONALE
Summer
Head to the district of Altona for some theatre performances, arts, flea markets, cool parties and plenty of live music. This street festival is a favourite amongst locals.
IRONMAN
June
Swimming, cycling, running – June sees thousands of athletes run, swim and cycle 141 miles. The event attracts many onlookers so expect fun-filled days in the sun. But do remember - if you’re visiting during this time, some roads may be closed.
HARLEY DAYS
Mid-June
Every summer, around 50,000 bikers and 600,000 visitors head into Hamburg for the famous Harley
Days. Filled with live music, contests and, of course, plenty of gorgeous motorbikes, visitors can expect a nice mix of expo and entertainment on around 40,000 square metres.
CYCLASSICS HAMBURG
August
The Cyclassics is an annual one-day cycling race in and around Hamburg. Even though the route varies, the distance always measures around 250 kilometres. Professional as well as amateur cyclers can join.
REEPERBAHN FESTIVAL
September
In September the Reeperbahn Festival turns the sinful mile into a music venue of the special kind. For four days, readings, art happenings, movie screenings and concerts from artists from different genres, from heavy metal to jazz and soul in many different venues will be held.
OKTOBERFEST
September, October
Like most European cities, Hamburg also has its own Oktoberfest events
all over the city. Drink some massive beers, eat some Weisswurst (Bavarian veal sausages) and snack on some pretzels. We suggest heading to the Wandsbeker Wiesn event or the Oktoberfest in the Fischauktionshalle. Alternatively, why not visit one of the Hofbräuhaus restaurants to experience some authentic Oktoberfest vibes?
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
Throughout December
If you’re into authentic Christmas markets, Hamburg is the city for you. From a somewhat different fun fair in St. Pauli to a more traditional one on the main city square, look forward to plenty of mulled wine, tons of candied almonds and more.