Afrika Festival Birkenried

Africa on a Swabian Farm

The Kulturgewächshaus Birkenried is a place that is hard to put into words. In the middle of the Swabian Danube valley, a few kilometers west of Gundelfingen an der Donau, run by the association Kulturgewächshaus Birkenried, a unique world has developed on a former farm: a cultural center for African and world culture, with a concert stage, restaurant, market, gallery, and 'Kariba' bar, all nestled in woods and meadows. Once a year, on the Pentecost weekend, it becomes the Afrika Festival Birkenried — four days in Bavaria, leaving Bavaria behind without having to travel.

What's on in 2026

• Live Concerts: international African and reggae acts, plus German reggae bands
• Reggae and Dancehall Parties: in the 'Kariba' bar until late at night
• Drum Workshops: Djembe, Talking Drums, traditional percussion instruments
• Walking Acts: stilt walkers, drummers, performances between the stages
• African Market: textiles, clothing, jewelry, art, crafts from various African countries
• Culinary Delights: several African restaurants and BBQ stands with authentic cuisine (West Africa, East Africa, Caribbean)
• Gallery: contemporary African art
• Children's Program: drumming, stories, dance, interactive activities
• Opening Concert Friday, May 22nd at 8:00 PM: Godfrey and the Grandsons
• Church Service: Gospel service on Sunday morning

Kulturgewächshaus Birkenried e.V.

The association was founded years ago to make African culture visible in Bavaria. The Birkenried 5 area serves as a meeting point for African-German families throughout the year, a venue for concerts, workshops, and drumming classes. The Pentecost festival is the annual highlight — a manifestation of intercultural encounters, with genuine commitment and without commercial pomp.

Gundelfingen an der Donau and the Donau-Ries Region

Gundelfingen an der Donau is located in the district of Dillingen an der Donau in Bavarian Swabia, about 35 kilometers west of Ulm. The region — flat Danube valley, quiet fields, well-kept Danube floodplains — is scenically tranquil and not heavily developed for tourism. It's all the more surprising to find an international Africa festival here. A insider tip for anyone who wants to break the official Bavarian cliché.

When to Go?

The opening concert on Friday, May 22nd at 8 PM (Godfrey and the Grandsons) is an intimate affair. Saturday and Sunday are the main festival days with a full program. Monday (Whit Monday) is affordable and quieter, ideal for families. If you want to experience the whole festival: camping on-site is possible (information at birkenried.de).