Helmstedt Old Town Festival

Helmstedt — University City in Eastern Lower Saxony

Helmstedt is a district-free city in eastern Lower Saxony, directly on the border with Saxony-Anhalt. With approximately 25,000 inhabitants, a historic medieval city centre, and the tradition of the former university (1576-1810), the city is a magnet for tourism and culture. Alongside the Schützenfest (marksmen's festival) and Volksfest (folk festival), the Old Town Festival is the city's second major summer event.

Four Squares, One Festival Mile

The Old Town Festival takes place in four central locations in Helmstedt's city centre: Marktplatz, Heinrichsplatz, Papenberg, and Kornstraße. These four points together form a festival mile that can be easily explored on foot. Various stages, stalls, and themed areas are set up in each square and street.

Live Music

Live music is the heart of the festival. Regional bands from the Helmstedt area and nationally known bands from northern Germany provide a diverse programme. Genres range from pop and rock to jazz and funk, Schlager, and folk. Several stages allow for parallel performances, giving the audience a choice between different concerts.

Children's Programme

An extensive children's programme makes the Old Town Festival family-friendly. Bouncy castles, play stations, craft activities, face painting, and children's concerts are on the agenda. Parents can relax while their children participate in the activities.

Culinary Offerings

Numerous food stalls offer regional and international specialities. Bratwurst, fries, crêpes, pizza, Asian specialities, pancakes, candied almonds, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks are available. Helmstedt's restaurants also open their outdoor seating areas and integrate into the festival activities.

Stadtmarketing helmstedt aktuell

Stadtmarketing helmstedt aktuell is the central organizer of the Old Town Festival. In cooperation with the City of Helmstedt, they are responsible for the programme, logistics, security, and marketing. The Old Town Festival is one of Stadtmarketing's most important projects and contributes to the revitalization of the city centre.