The Biggest Funfair on the Rhine

The Biggest Funfair on the Rhine (Größte Kirmes am Rhein) draws over four million visitors each year to Düsseldorf. Hailed as one of Germany’s biggest fairs, the only other fairs that surpass it are Oktoberfest in Munich, the Cranger Funfair in Herne and the Cannstatter Folk Festival in Stuttgart.

The biggest and best funfair on the Rhine

Year after year, the fair proves to be a vibrant favourite on the calendar. Although busy, it is a safe and wholesome family-friendly event. Thanks to its spectacular location on the Rhine, with the backdrop of the old town, its physical beauty should not be underestimated!

The fair takes place during the third week of July each year, on a 165.000 square metre area on the left bank of the Rhine, called Oberkassel Rheinwiesen. It's always full to the brim with amusement park rides, novelty shops and drink stalls. It has everything that you're likely to find at any of the amusement parks in Germany. Visitors can also try out typical German food such as pretzels and sausages at the many food tents.

The last Friday of the Biggest Funfair on the Rhine is landmarked with spectacular fireworks, turning the Rhine into a dazzling, glittering frenzy of colour, fire and light!

A surprisingly old tradition in Düsseldorf

There was always a fair on the Rhine during July - even going back as far as 1435! What started as a parish fair and a celebration of Düsseldorf’s patron saint, St Apollinaris, has evolved into something rather different, but certain events, such as the opening ceremony and the shooting contest, reflect the original happenings at the Düsseldorf fair way back when!

Nowadays there is still a historic procession with 3.000 uniformed shooters, marching bands, horses and carriages, which is said to be one of Germany’s largest annual parades.

Plan your trip to the Biggest Funfair on the Rhine

It’s important to note that there is no parking at the fairground, so driving is not recommended. Instead, visitors are advised to arrive by public transport or by bicycle. There are even special night buses during the event.

For more information about the event, visit the fair's website. Perhaps you can combine your trip to the Biggest Funfair on the Rhine with some sightseeing in Düsseldorf!