Hansefest Uelzen

Uelzen as a Hanseatic City

In the late Middle Ages, Uelzen was part of the Hanseatic League, the powerful confederation of cities that controlled Northern European trade from Novgorod to Bruges. Uelzen's architecture, economy, and culture were shaped by its Hanseatic past. The Hanse Festival honors this tradition and makes it accessible to a modern audience.

Schnellenmarktviertel as a Historic Backdrop

The Schnellenmarktviertel is one of the historic quarters of Uelzen's city center. With its old buildings, the Schnellenmarkt (market square), and narrow alleys, it offers an authentic backdrop for a medieval-themed festival. The quarter will be transformed into a historical marketplace for the two festival days, allowing visitors to visually and sensorially experience Hanseatic Uelzen.

2nd Edition of the Young Festival

The Hanse Festival originated in 2024 as a new event in Uelzen's festival calendar. Its second edition in 2026 shows that the format has become established and will be a permanent part of Uelzen's event policy. The two festival days allow for ambitious programming with various stages, demonstrations, and hands-on activities.

Two Stages with Medieval Music

Two stages host the musical program. Expect medieval sounds with hurdy-gurdy, bagpipes, shawm, lute, and drums, played by professional medieval music ensembles. Genres range from authentically reconstructed medieval music to modern interpretations — medieval rock and folk-punk belong to the broader scene.

Jesters and Craft Demonstrations

Jesters, jugglers, fire-eaters, and acrobats entertain visitors with performances in the style of medieval traveling troupes. Craftsmen demonstrate their skills — blacksmithing, pottery, leatherwork, wool work — in show workshops where visitors can watch and often try their hand.

Knight's Camp and Medieval Market

A knight's camp offers insight into the lives of medieval nobles and warriors. Living history reenactors in historical armor and clothing present weapons, armor, camp life, and combat techniques. The medieval market with its stalls offers visitors handcrafted products and medieval-style food.

Hanseatic Breakfast on Sunday

A charming highlight is the Hanseatic breakfast on Sunday. In a Hanseatic ambiance — with long tables, historical tableware, and medieval-style food — visitors can enjoy breakfast together. The format combines historical education with conviviality.