From jazz to film to folk dancing, Frankfurt festivals attract travelers from just about everywhere. If you’re thinking about visiting the city but are not sure when to go, perhaps a look at some of its festivals will help you set a date.

Dippemess Duo

Frankfurt’s Dippemess Festivals occur twice a year. The Spring Dippemess Festivals starts on March 26 and extends until April 18. As the city’s first open-air fair of the year, it marks the end of a long winter. There are carousels, roller coasters and food to be tried. The Fall Dippemess Festival is in September. Both celebrations are held at the Festplatz am Ratsweg square. For a more traditional folk festival, try the Wäldchestag. This festival is held in May, by the Stadtwald Forest. The affair runs for 4 days. Live music and local food create a fun atmosphere.

Summer Picks

Summertime in Frankfurt is peppered with festivals, fairs, parades and concerts. Here are 3 summer picks: If you’re in the city during the month of June, go to the Opernplatz Festival. It’s held by the city’s opera house. Cabaret artists, entertainers and singers perform in the plaza. The Parade of Cultures is another celebration that’s fun to attend in June. At the city center there’s a midday procession with floats and performers that represent different nations. At nighttime, bars in the area feature world music. July and August hold a bigger and better treat: Mainfest. It takes place at the Mainkai and Römerberg along the river banks. It opens with live music and ends with fantastic fireworks. Frankfurt’s specialty, apple wine, is a festival favorite.

Not to Miss

The Museumsuferfest is one of Frankfurt’s’ biggest festivals. Entertainers can be found on any of 10 stages by the Main River. This 3-day festival attracts about 3 million people each year. It features art shows, technology exhibitions, films and a wide array of music. Museums and important organizations act as sponsors, making this a quality event you shouldn’t miss. Dial (49) (69) 4699-9475 for information.

Fall: Movies and Jazz

Movie buffs have many film festivals to choose from. Among them are the CineLatino and Cuba in Film Festival. They’re held in April and May respectively. Film fans looking for a casual outdoor gathering should head for Shorts at Moonlight at the Höchst Castle in July. Finally, the Frankfurt Jazz festival takes place in October. Musicians from around the globe perform at a famous radio station. For tickets, call (49) (69) 1555-2000.