Arts, crafts, food, music, dancing and story-telling - all of human creativity is celebrated and shared at the International Danube Festival, from all the countries that the river touches.

International Danube Festival 2024

The Danube is a natural wonder of Europe, twisting 2.850km through Europe, from Germany to Ukraine. It passes through 10 countries on its way and connects four major capital cities: Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and Belgrade. The International Danube Festival has been created to celebrate both the river itself and the many different cultures that exist along it.

The festival hopes to promote unity throughout Europe, and with the recent war in Ukraine, it feels its mission more than ever. There are lots of youth programmes running, to help young people from the region feel part of something bigger.

Across the water

The festival takes place in both Ulm and Neu-Ulm, framing the river as a connection between the two towns rather than a divider. Ferries and Ulm barges run back and forth between the banks all day long. Both banks host the Danube market, with 40 food stands and 60 artisan stalls, bringing tasty delicacies and regional crafts from the whole length of the river to Ulm. The market runs every day of the 10-day festival.

Music competition

Every year, a competition is held for young musicians studying music at certain institutions. In 2024, the competition is for the best Oboist. There will be two rounds, with the winner crowned at the end of the second day. Entrance to all rounds is free, and it is held at Ulm Music School, Marktplatz 19. The day after the final, all participants get to play in a concert with the previous year's winner. Come along and see the next generation of talent in action!

Connecting cultures

As well as food and drink, expect many displays of regional dancing, stalls from tourist boards showing off the beauty of their home towns, as well as plenty of music and theatre from all over the region. There are also arts and crafts workshops, where you can learn a new skill while making something pretty, and lots of activities for children to get involved with.

How to visit the International Danube Festival

The festival takes place in the twin towns of Ulm and Neu-Ulm, and therefore in two German states: Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Ulm is just 45 minutes by train from Stuttgart and 75 minutes from Munich, so easy to get to from the rest of Germany by public transport.

Many of the events are free, but some of the concerts and talks do require tickets. You can find out more about the programme and which events are ticketed on the International Danube Festival website.