Bernkastel-Kues comes alive! – Season Opening

A First Joint Season Opening

Bernkastel-Kues blüht auf! is a premiere for the Wine Holiday Region: the first coordinated season opening where gastronomy, hotels, and retail jointly kick off the tourism year. For ten days – from Friday, March 20th, to Sunday, March 29th, 2026 – the town transforms into a single festival area with various program elements celebrating spring and the start of the new season.

Funfair on the Moselle Riverbank

A funfair with carousels, rides, food stalls, and candy stands will be set up on the Moselle riverbank. Unlike the region's large folk festivals (Volksfeste), the atmosphere here is more subdued and geared more towards families and spring visitors.

Late-Night Shopping

In cooperation with the retailers in the city center, late-night shopping will be organized. Shops will stay open longer, showcasing their spring and summer collections, and participating in a coordinated city festival concept with promotions, special offers, and culinary accompaniment in the streets.

Light and Laser Show

One of the most spectacular elements is the light and laser show, staged on one or more evenings over the Moselle and the historic facades of the old town. The show utilizes the unique backdrop of Bernkastel-Kues, creating a visual experience rarely seen in this form on the Middle Moselle.

Fashion Show and Boat Convoy

A fashion show will present the spring and summer collections of local retailers. A boat convoy on the Moselle – featuring classic Moselle passenger ships – will provide another visual highlight, focusing on the connection between the town and the river.

A Premiere with Ambition

With Bernkastel-Kues blüht auf!, the region is making a clear statement: the season opener should no longer take place inconspicuously in spring, but rather attract visitors as a prominent event and draw attention to the town. The first edition in 2026 is a test balloon for a new, ambitious format.