German-American Friendship Festival Ramstein

The German-American Friendship Festival Ramstein will take place in its 8th edition from June 5th to 7th, 2026. The festival at John-F.-Kennedy-Platz is a symbol of the close connection between the West Palatinate region and the American community of Ramstein Air Base, the largest US Air Force base in Europe.

Background

For over 70 years, German and American families have lived side-by-side in and around Ramstein-Miesenbach. The Friendship Festival honors this established connection with a joint music, culture, and culinary program. The festival is organized by the town of Ramstein-Miesenbach in cooperation with the Congress Center Ramstein and the US military community.

Friday, June 5th, 2026 – Rock Opening

Starting at 6 PM, the bands Touch 'n Go and CHANGES will open the weekend with an energetic rock and cover program. The stage at John-F.-Kennedy-Platz is the central meeting point for residents and the US military community of the Air Base.

Saturday, June 6th, 2026 – USAREUR-AF and Frantic

The official military band USAREUR-AF Band (US Army Europe and Africa Band) will deliver the musical highlight with a professional program ranging from Big Band to Pop and Rock. Afterwards, the cover band Frantic will bring stadium rock to the open-air stage with classics from Bon Jovi and AC/DC.

Sunday, June 7th, 2026 – Family Day

Sunday is Family Day: From 1 PM, stalls will open offering bratwurst, burgers, pulled pork, fries, donuts, and cocktails. From 2 PM, Country to go will play Country and Roots music, accompanied by activities for children, opportunities to meet the US community, and a relaxed conclusion.

Free Admission and Symbolic Meaning

The festival is free to enter, making it intentionally accessible. It symbolically represents a lived German-American friendship that extends far beyond military and political relations and is firmly anchored in the daily lives of the people of the West Palatinate region.