Festivals in Ulm

This Ulm Festivals guide will help you decide when to go so you wont miss any of these great events.

Ulmer Zelt (Ulm Tent Festival)

Held from May 19 until July 3, this festival offers national and international rock, jazz, blues and pop bands as well as comedy, vaudeville and cabaret acts, all under a huge circus tent that can accommodate 1000 people. You can also visit a gastronomy tent with a beer garden, and there is a great children program. Tickets need to be booked in advance.

Serenade of Lights

On July 17th, thousands of candles are floated along the river accompanied by soft music and tall water columns to create a romantic scenery.

Schworfeier and Nabada Celebrations

The Schworfeier (Oath Celebrations takes place in the morning of July 19th). The Ulm Mayor speaks about the past year and offers his prognostic of the year to come and he swears an oath to uphold the town's constitution. This ceremony dates back to 1397. Following the speech, everyone moves to the Danube for the Nabada Celebtation, where the river takes the appearance of a carnival as several theme boats make light of the political issues, accompanied by the music of numerous bands carried on boats and the spectators get to vote on the best musical act of the day. The day culminates in festivities in Friedrichsau Park and other locations in the center of town.

International Danube Festival

Taking place every two years (even numbered) from August 27 until September 5, this festival welcomes artists and visitors from all the countries bordering the Danube.

Ulm/New Ulm Night of Culture

Held on Spetember 18, this night offers free public transportation throughout the city and you can experience the cultural programs at the cafes and bars, galleries, public squares, museums and theaters.

Ulm Christmas Market

Held from November 22 until December 22, this is a must for anything and everything related to the Christmas Holiday. This market attracts visitors from Switzerland, Austria and Germany and is set in the Minster square. Christmas music and singing can be heard every day during business hours, and you can purchase decorations, local culinary specialties, toys, arts and crafts as well as view the living nativity scene or take a ride on the children's carousels. Its location close to the pedestrian shopping area makes it a shoppers' paradise.