Haaner Kirmes

The largest Volksfest in the Mettmann district

With around 300,000 visitors per edition, the Haaner Kirmes is not only the largest Volksfest in the Mettmann district but also one of the most significant popular festivals in the Bergisches Land region. For five days – from Friday to Tuesday – the entire city centre of the garden city of Haan becomes a festival mile. Showmen from all over North Rhine-Westphalia and beyond set up their attractions around the Neuer Markt and in the adjacent streets.

Classic Volksfest Atmosphere

You'll find everything that makes a traditional Kirmes: a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, a chain carousel, a swing carousel, and modern high-speed rides. Alongside these are stands selling crêpes, almonds, and bratwurst, large beer tents with live music, shooting galleries, and lottery stalls. The mix of tradition and newer attractions makes the Haaner Kirmes appealing to all generations.

Opening on Friday

Friday marks the start: the Kirmes is officially opened at the Ferris wheel, the rides and stalls open, and the festival tent fills up. It's the traditional opening evening where Haan residents and visitors from the region come together to celebrate the start of the festival.

Grand Finale Firework Display on Tuesday

The grand firework display on Tuesday evening is both the highlight and the conclusion. Bouquets explode over the Neuer Markt as visitors gather closely for a final look. It's the emotional closing point of a five-day Volksfest that is unparalleled in the Mettmann district.

Market and Sunday Opening Hours

The Kirmes is accompanied by a large market in the city centre with stalls selling fashion, household goods, and specialities. On the Kirmes Sunday, Haan's shops open their doors for a Sunday shopping event.

Haan – the Garden City between Düsseldorf and Wuppertal

Haan, also known colloquially as the "Garden City," is located in the Mettmann district between Düsseldorf and Wuppertal. With just under 30,000 inhabitants, it is a manageable city with a strong identity. The Kirmes is one of Haan's central identifying features – an event that dominates the entire social life for almost a week.

Tradition and Family Friendliness

Despite its size, the Haaner Kirmes has retained its family-friendly character. There is a family day with reduced prices, children's entertainment, and quieter areas for younger visitors. The beer tents are meeting points for clubs, school classes, and neighbourhoods – everyone knows everyone, and guests are welcome.