There are events and festivals in Bremen throughout the year. Some of them are quite large and renowned and should not be missed.
Eiswette
On January 6th, the traditional "Eiswette" takes place every year at the Weser River in Bremen. A tailor with a glowing iron tries to cross the river without getting wet feet. The first "Eiswette" was held in the year 1829.
Schaffermahl
Also an important tradition in Bremen is the Schaffermahl in February. Since 1952, it has been carried out every year in the city hall of Bremen.
In February as well, there is the carnival. The Bremen carnival is one of the most important festivals of the city and not typically German at all.
Breminale
The Breminale at the "Osterdeichwiesen" in Bremen first took place in 1987. During this cultural event every year in September, thousands of people meet for theater, literature, music as well as events for children. Unfortunately, there is a problem with the financing of the Breminale at the moment and noone is sure whether this important festival will survive. But people are fighting for it!
The Festival Maritim takes place every year in the Bremen area Vegesack in August. For three days, thousands of people come together in the harbour area and national as well as international bands are presented. As this festival is unique in Germany, you should not miss it when you are in Bremen at that time.
In September every year, the Musikfest Bremen takes place. It is one of the largest festivals of classic music in Germany. The programme includes performances of contemporary and historic music as well as international artists and has been increasing since its establishment in 1989.
The Freimarkt in Bremen is one of the oldest public festivals in Germany. It dates back to the Middle Ages, i.e. the first Freimarkt was held on October 16th, 1035 on the court of the church "Unser Lieben Frauen" when people were allowed to sell their goods on the market without any restrictions. About 800 years later, funfairs and tents were introduced on the market. Now, the Freimarkt takes place every year for two weeks in October and is not only one of the oldest, but also one of the most popular German public festivals.
