Festivals in Germany: When will it be summer again?

In 2020 and 2021 most music festivals in Germany had to be cancelled due to the Coronavirus-Pandemic. But many music fans hope that this will change soon. After all, what is a summer without festivals like Rock am Ring, Hurricane or Wacken? We explain the special attraction of rock festivals in Germany and showcase three interesting events.

What makes Germany’s rock festivals unforgettable

 

There is hardly a place in Germany that does not have its own music festival. These events have a long tradition. Some of the oldest festivals started in the 1920s. But even the newer events have become an integral part of the cultural life of a region.

 

Many types of music:

Every festival in Germany has its own concept and character. So there are a wide variety of musical styles and cultural offerings. The music genres range from baroque, and classical, to jazz, folk and blues to pop, rock and electronic music.

More than just music:

In addition to concerts, many festivals also offer art and cultural programmes and a selection of interesting food. Theatrical performances, exhibitions, cinema, handicrafts, jewellery stands and food trucks are all regular parts of a festival in Germany.

Boundless creativity:

You can spend the whole day outside at a German festival, listening to music and dancing. When it gets dark, the mood changes though. At many festivals you can see participants who have made their own creations with things like fairy lights and umbrellas. The amount of creativity seems limitless.

 

Taking off at the Fusion Festival

 
 
 

Culture is part of the mix

In addition to the live music, there is a diverse cultural programme with a cinema, readings and discussions, cabaret and radio plays, as well as theatre and performance art.

Fusion speaks English

Since the fusion draws guests from all over the world, many events are held in English.

Let it rain!

Fusion is an open-air festival, but there are also covered stages. The old hangars of the airport are used and circus tents are set up so that concerts can take place even if the weather does not cooperate.

In the tram at the SNNTG festival

 

A comfortable celebration in Sehnde

The SNNTG festival is held in a tram museum near Hanover. To get from one part of the site to the other, you ride in an historic tram. If you’re lucky, might even experience live music in the train.

In past festivals, bands also came from Poland, France and England. The music is varied. One stage is intended for hip-hop, funk and soul, another is for indie, rock and pop. And the third stage features electronic music.

The stages are all outside and sprawl across the museum grounds. You also find old trams and buses that are integrated as decorations and contribute to the unique atmosphere of the festival. There is a hall with exhibitions, installations and space to simply sit and relax. Activities are diverse. You can paint your own bag, play volleyball or enjoy a coffee in the tram café.

The festival planning places great emphasis on promoting culture and working with local partners, including local student unions or with initiatives such as Viva con Agua and Amnesty International.

 
 
People in front of a stage
People in front of a stage© Sophie Apelt

Family atmosphere at Immergut