Annotopia – Fantasy Festival Schloss Marienburg

Schloss Marienburg as a Stage

Schloss Marienburg, perched high above the Leinetal valley, was built in the mid-19th century by King George V of Hanover as a birthday gift for his wife Marie. The neo-Gothic architecture, the towers, bay windows, and courtyards provide a unique setting for a fantasy festival: hardly any other venue in Germany fits the visual world of the fantasy scene so perfectly. Annotopia consistently leverages this atmosphere, integrating the castle into the festival's events, including castle tours which are included in the admission price.

Three Worlds Under One Festival Roof

Annotopia is not a classic medieval market but a fusion of three worlds: the medieval world with knights, damsels, Vikings, and traditional crafts; the steampunk world with its Victorian-industrial aesthetic of gears, brass, and goggles; and the modern fantasy world with cosplays from films, series, video games, and literary sources. This mix attracts a broad audience, from traditional medieval fans to young cosplayers and fantasy literature enthusiasts.

Over 450 Costumed Participants

More than 450 registered costumed participants, along with festival-goers in their own attire, create a multi-layered living tableau. Camps with historical tents, elaborate steampunk installations, professional cosplayers, and enthusiastic hobbyists share the stage. Those who wish to participate are encouraged to come in costume; it is not mandatory.

Market, Stages, and Taverns

The market features specialized vendors for fantasy costumes, LARP equipment, medieval clothing, jewelry, leather goods, horns, books, games, and accessories. Several stages host music – from medieval rock bands and symphonic fantasy sounds to walk-on music groups. Taverns offering mead, beer, and medieval-inspired cuisine complete the offerings. Historical reenactments, theatrical performances, and show acts are a regular part of the program.

Family Program

Annotopia explicitly caters to families. There are special hands-on activities for children, child-friendly performances, and a reduced admission price. Many families come in costume, making the Pentecost weekend a shared experience.

Pentecost Weekend as Festival Date

The festival traditionally takes place on the Pentecost weekend, one of the most important dates in the German fantasy and medieval festival calendar. Visitors to Annotopia typically plan for a weekend, combining the festival, a castle visit, and a trip to the nearby Hannover-Hildesheim region.