Events in Germany in April 2024. As spring blooms in Germany, the country bursts with life, offering a vibrant array of events to welcome the season’s arrival. From traditional celebrations to exciting activities, this month promises to infuse joy and energy into everyone’s spirits. Here are must-attend events in Germany this April 2024.
March 22 – April 14: Dippemess, Frankfurt am Main
Frankfurt’s biggest and most ancient festival unfolds twice a year at the festival square on the Ratsweg. The spring edition of the Dippemess has already kicked off, offering two more weeks of festivities. Dating back to the 14th century, the Dippemess, formerly known as “Maamess,” originated as a medieval market for household items. Artisans from nearby regions would gather to vend their ceramic wares, known as ‘Dippe,’ which lent the event its name.
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As time passed, the ceramic vendors were joined by a diverse array of merchants and entertainment options. In the 1960s, Dippemess transitioned from its city center location to the fairgrounds on the Ratsweg. Today, attendees can enjoy a blend of contemporary entertainment alongside traditional offerings like stalls offering Apfelwein (apple wine) and sausages.
March 30 – April 14: Spring Festival in Nuremberg
The second-largest folk festival in Bavaria commenced last weekend and spans a duration of two weeks. It encompasses a rich assortment of carnival traditions and parades. The festivities kicked off with the ceremonial tapping of a beer keg, reminiscent of Oktoberfest, where attendees can savor beer in traditional beer tents while reveling in the music of local brass bands. Additionally, the festival features a designated family day offering all activities at half price, providing an opportunity for families to enjoy the festivities together.
April 16 – 21: International Women’s Film Festival Dortmund+Köln, Dortmund
The International Women’s Film Festival Dortmund+Köln stands as Germany’s premier platform for women in the film industry. For nearly four decades, it has showcased exceptional films by women across all genres and styles, highlighting their influence in various roles such as directors, cinematographers, producers, screenwriters, composers, and actors. This festival provides a unique opportunity to experience a diverse selection of films, with 95 offerings from 40 countries. Attendees can explore screenings of short film collections, debut feature films, and entries in the International Debut Feature Film Competition. Additionally, the festival offers workshops and discussions where participants can engage with the talented women behind the films.
April 26-28: Gallery Weekend Berlin
Since 2005, Berlin galleries have been showcasing exhibitions by both emerging and established artists during this three-day event. This year, 55 galleries from Berlin’s central districts will participate. Organizers have announced the addition of several exciting new galleries to the event, including Galerie Molitor, Noah Klink Galerie, Schiefe Zähne, Sweetwater, and Heidi.
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April 30: Walpurgis Night
Walpurgis Night traces its roots back 1,000 years to pagan customs in Germany, observed on the night of April 30 each year. Saint Walpurgis was honored with a feast on May 1, with people gathering to dance the night before. It’s also associated with the belief that witches convene during this time. The term “Walpurgis Nacht” gained popularity from Goethe’s “Faust” in 1808. In certain regions like the Harz Mountains, smaller villages celebrate with festivals, such as in Bad Grund, featuring open-air theater and dancing. Larger German cities, including Berlin’s Mauerpark, also host annual Walpurgis Night celebrations.
Music festivals begin
While many of Germany’s major music festivals are held during the summer, there are also several noteworthy ones in the spring. This month, metal enthusiasts can look forward to the 19th edition of the Ragnarök festival at the Stadthalle Lichtenfels from April 4-6. For those seeking a more subdued atmosphere, Dresden’s Polimagie Festival will showcase indie, rock, and pop artists from Germany, the UK, and Europe from April 17-21. Jazz and big band aficionados are encouraged to attend the fourth Deutsche Oper Jazz Festival in Berlin, featuring several concerts from April 17-22, as reported by Deutschland.de.