Flowers aren’t the only things that blossom during spring and summer; Frankfurt and the surrounding towns do, too! Honestly, the city transforms during the summer, becoming a hive of activity, offering up a vibrant energy and cultural richness. After a long, hard winter, no one’s passing up the opportunity to enjoy the sunshine and all the warmth has to offer. From music festivals to outdoor markets and cultural celebrations, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Here are some of the top activities and major events in Frankfurt summer 2024 and why you shouldn’t miss them:
Frankfurt Summer 2024 Major Events and Festivals
CULTURAL
Palmengarten Open-air Theatre in English
For the whole month of June and the first week of July, escape the city and immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare!! Spend an evening in the lush green oasis of the Palmengarten, experiencing one of Shakespeare’s most loved plays, Much Ado About Nothing.
Museumsuferfest Frankfurt: 23 – 25 August 2024
Kicking off the summer season in style, Museumsuferfest celebrates the city’s cultural diversity along the banks of the Main River. With art exhibitions, live music, dance performances, and culinary delights from around the world, this festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Frankfurt’s vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with family and friends, Museumsuferfest has something for everyone.
Christopher Street Day (CSD) Frankfurt: 8 – 11 August 2024
Dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ rights and equality, Christopher Street Day is a colourful and inclusive celebration that attracts thousands of participants and spectators from across Germany and beyond. The event’s highlight is the colourful parade through the streets of Frankfurt, where people of all backgrounds come together to celebrate diversity and inclusivity. With live music, performances, and parties throughout the city, CSD Frankfurt is a must-visit event for anyone who believes in equality and love for all.
Oktoberfest in Frankfurt: 18 September – 13 October 2024
Who says you need to go to Munich for a little Oktoberfest fun? Contrary to what you might know, you can enjoy a little ‘light’ beer drinking right here on your doorstep.
Major Trade Fairs
Each year, Frankfurt Plays host to several Trade Fairs drawing visitors from near and far. For a breakdown of many of the trade fairs read more here.
STREET FESTIVALS
Grüne Soße Festival: 11 – 18 May
If you want a real ‘taste of Hessen’ this is your chance! Grüne Soße or Green sauce is a regional and much loved speciality! Held annually, this lively event showcases the traditional herb-based sauce, which features seven specific herbs, alongside various cultural and entertainment activities. The festival transforms the city into a hub of gastronomic delight, offering visitors the chance to taste different variations of the sauce prepared by local chefs. Beyond its culinary focus, the festival includes live music, performances, and family-friendly activities, creating a festive atmosphere that highlights Frankfurt’s rich cultural heritage.
Berger Straßenfest: 25 – 26 May
On any given day Berger Straße is a hive of activity, so gear up when you head out for this festival! Unsurprisingly this street fest is particularly well known for its vibrant atmosphere, with its mix of live music, street performances, culinary delights, and local crafts. Stretching the length and breath of Frankfurt’S longest and most beloved streets, the event draws locals and tourists alike. Visitors can indulge in a wide variety of food and drinks from local vendors, explore unique stalls offering handmade goods, and enjoy a diverse range of entertainment options including family friendly one.
Freßgass Festival: 22 – 31 May
Myth has it that residents believe Spring has truly sprung when Freßgass Festival kicks off. However, as we all know, the weather is a temperamental beast these days! As one of the initial street festivals during the spring/summer season, there is a definite excitement in the air as locals dust off their sandals and tidy away their winter coats. Each year, the celebration draws thousands of visitors to “Große Bockenheimer Straße” between Börsenstraße and Opernplatz. Plenty of wine tasting and plenty of cheer!
Main Festival: 02 – 05 August 2024
The Main Festival in Frankfurt is a family-friendly festival that comes to life every summer along the picturesque banks of the Main River. From traditional rides and unusual historical activities to fireworks lighting up the skies, there is plenty to see and do. For example, one of the standout highlights is the traditional fisherman’s joust (expected to occur on Sunday, the 4th, from 4 pm). In this captivating contest, brave participants don historical costumes and face off on boats armed with long spears in a thrilling test of skill and balance. Another unique attraction is “Wine from the Fountain of Justice”; here, wine instead of water flows from one of the city’s historic fountains.
Sommerwerft Street Art Festival: 26 July – 11 August, 2024
In their own words, ” 17 DAYS OF THEATRE, DANCE, MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE“. Visitors can explore the urban landscape at Weseler Werft while experiencing the creative art scene that Sommerwerft has on offer.
MUSIC AND DANCE
Fête de la Musique: 21 June 2024
This music festival dates back to 1982, when Jack Lang, the French Minister of Culture, envisioned a vibrant musical celebration in Paris. Armed with a few powerful connections and a hefty dose of musical idealism, this vision blossomed into the global phenomenon we see today. Every year on June 21st, the world now celebrates Fête de la Musique, also known as European and Worldwide Music Day. This special event unites people in over 340 cities worldwide, including 60 in Europe and 20 in Germany. Join the global celebration of music at the Fête de la Musique, which will this year be hosted at Villa Manskopf in Frankfurt. The festival is free and open to the public, with musicians generously waiving their fees. Performances are of all styles and typically occur outdoors, adding to the festive atmosphere.
World Club Dome: 6 to 8 September 2024
World Club Dome has steadily risen to become one of Europe’s premier EDM and electronic music festivals. It is held at Deutsche Bank Park (formerly Commerzbank Arena) in Frankfurt am Main. Choose between World Club Dome Future Edition and World Club Dome Pool session, which is held at Stadion Bad Frankfurt.
Mama Geht Tanzen: 13 July 2024 and 16 August 2024
If you are after an insanely fun girls’ night out dancing, this is your JAM. Join Mama Geht Tanzen’s upcoming open-air events at Zapato Club and Gateway Gardens Ocean Club! Be sure to book tickets quickly; they sell out at a rapid rate!
SPORT AND FITNESS
UEFA EURO Football
Absolutely, UEFA Euro 2024 in Frankfurt promises thrilling matches with top European teams, creating an electric atmosphere for fans worldwide. The event kicks off in Munich on Friday, June 14, and ends with the final in Berlin on Sunday, July 14. It allows Frankfurt to show off its rich heritage and vibrant summer culture while offering an unforgettable experience both on and off the pitch. Join the celebration to witness history in the making and enjoy the action, passion, and camaraderie of Euro 2024.
Ironman Frankfurt: 18 August 2024
Undoutedly,Ironman Frankfurt is one of the ultimate tests of endurance and athleticism for fitness enthusiasts and sports fans. Athletes from around the world gather to swim, bike, and run through the scenic landscapes of Frankfurt and its surrounding areas. However, if, like me, you prefer more of a spectator role, grab your picnic blanket, take a seat along the main and cheer loudly for all those who I can only imagine are ‘in hell’.
Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, witnessing the determination and dedication of Ironman athletes is an inspiring experience that will leave you in awe.
Outside Frankfurt Summer 2024 Major Events and Festivals
Rheingau Musik Festival: 22 June – 7 September 2024
Held in various venues across the Rheingau region, this renowned music festival features world-class performances by orchestras, ensembles, and soloists. Visitors can enjoy concerts in historic castles, churches, and vineyards, surrounded by stunning scenery.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music at the Rheingau Musik Festival. Set against the backdrop of historic castles, vineyards, and churches, this renowned festival showcases world-class performances by orchestras, ensembles, and soloists. Whether you’re a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, the Rheingau Musik Festival promises an unforgettable musical experience in some of the most picturesque settings in Germany. Opening concert will take place at Kloster Eberbach on the 22nd of July
Fête de la Musique Schwetzingen city: 21 June 2024
This international music festival takes place in various locations across Schwetzingen city. Free concerts and performances showcase a diverse range of musical genres and styles. Visitors can enjoy live music in parks, squares, and streets throughout the city.
Heidelberger Schlossfestspiele: 9 June –28 July 2024
The Heidelberger Schlossfestspiele, or Heidelberg Castle Festival, is a magical annual event that transforms the historic Heidelberg Castle into a breathtaking stage for the arts. This enchanting festival features a diverse lineup of theatrical performances, operas, concerts, and dance shows, all set against the stunning backdrop of one of Germany’s most iconic castles.
In conclusion, Frankfurt offers a dynamic and diverse array of activities and events to enjoy during the summer of 2024. Whether exploring the city’s cultural heritage, indulging in culinary delights, or immersing yourself in the arts, there’s no shortage of experiences to delight and inspire visitors of all ages and interests. So come and discover the vibrant summer scene in Frankfurt. Without a doubt, you won’t be disappointed!