Decorated barrels with a sign on top (Tamala malerk)
Beginning in mid-September, the charming Altstadts throughout Germany will be transformed into large tents decorated in hues of blue and white, with wreaths of bright green hops adorning chandeliers inside. ‘Tis the season for beer festivals! While Oktoberfest in Munich is often the first that comes to mind, the Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart is it’s own grand adventure.
Humble beginnings
Almost 200 years ago, King Wilhelm I devised a plan for festival that would showcase Baden-Württemberg’s agricultural prowess. Hoping to stimulate the economy following the devastating Napoleonic Wars, the Cannstatter Volksfest was born.
Today, the festival boasts more than four million visitors annually and is the second-largest Volksfest in Germany. It is a grand spectable with large beer tents featuring live music performances and a vast carnival midway. For your convenience, there is a U-Bahn stop that drops you off right in front of the Wasen so you can walk right into the action.
Yellow U-Bahn train stopped in front of the festival grounds (Tamala Malerk)
Don the Dirndl and Lederhosen
Dust off your Dirndl and Lederhosen and hit the Wasen for thrilling rides, fabulous festival food goodness and, of course, delicious frosty beverages. Four local breweries — Dinkelacker, Fürstenberg, Schwaben Braü and Stuttgarter Hofbräu — produce specialty beer (according to Reinheitsgebot — German Purity Law) for the festival. Tent seating often fills quickly, so make reservations soon and come hungry. In the Schwaben Braü, we got to enjoy giant meat plates, huge pretzels and tasty Käsespätzle with a fried onion crunch.
If you don’t already own the traditional attire, don’t worry; they have a Dirndl and Lederhosen store onsite in the market area where you can also buy accessories as well as other trinkets and goods.
Exterior of wooden shop selling Dirndl and Lederhose (Tamala Malerk)
Be sure to check out the annual parade. Colorfully costumed characters, brass bands, and elaborately decorated beer wagons make their way from Cannstatter Kursaal to the Wasen. While you’re perusing the vast array of goods from local vendors, keep an eye out for the Fruchtsäle. This impressive 26-meter high column of fruit, veggies and grains represent the agricultural beginnings of the festival.
Know before you go
In 2025, the Cannstatter Volksfest kicks off Friday, Sept. 26 and runs through Sunday, Oct. 12. Admission to the Wasen is free. Wednesdays are family days, which offer special discounts on tickets, as well as great activities for kids of all ages. Check the website for all updates as far tent admission age requirements and other information. Please leave large bags and backpacks, and all pets at home.
