Herbstfest Tierheim Herne-Wanne

Animal Welfare Celebrates in Style

The Herbstfest of the Herne-Wanne Animal Shelter is one of the annual fundraising festivals of the Tierschutzverein Herne-Wanne e.V. — alongside the Easter bazaar and the Advent bazaar, it's one of three important donation days of the year. The animal shelter needs every euro to care for dogs, cats, small animals, and occasionally exotic animals. The Herbstfest not only generates income but also raises awareness and facilitates new sponsorships.

When: September 12 and 13, 2026, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Two days, clear opening hours: Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This allows you to be flexible and either experience the full program on Saturday or drop by on Sunday at your leisure. There is plenty of program for both days.

What You'll Find On-Site

Sales Stands

• Craft Supplies: Homemade items for animal lovers
• Homemade Pet Snacks: Treats for dogs and cats — healthy, without additives
• Books, decorations, toys for animals

Tombola and Prize Wheel

The tombola is a highlight of the festival — many local businesses donate prizes. With the prize wheel, you can try your luck for small donations.

Flea Market

The flea market area brings bric-a-brac, vintage finds, and used pet items to the stalls. If you're looking for a second-hand dog bed or a cat scratching post, this is the place to be.

Cosplay Group

A cosplay group will be on-site on both days, making the festival a visual experience, especially for younger visitors. Anime, manga, and pop culture meet animal welfare — an unusual, charming combination.

Coffee/Cake Buffet and Grill

The coffee/cake buffet is entirely donated — by members and friends of the association. The grill offers sausages and vegan options, so consumption can also be animal-friendly.

Herne-Wanne Animal Shelter — The Facility

The animal shelter is located at Hofstraße 51, 44628 Herne, in the Eickel district. It is one of the most important animal shelters in the western Ruhr area. The association has operated it on a voluntary basis for decades and relies on donations, membership fees, and sponsorships.

Herne — City in the Ruhr Area

Herne, with around 156,000 inhabitants, is centrally located in the western Ruhr area between Bochum and Recklinghausen. Eickel is a western district of Herne with a village-like atmosphere — a good choice for animal and walking enthusiasts.

How Can You Help?

• Visit: Free admission, every cent spent on-site helps
• Donate: Tombola tickets, coffee, grill — all proceeds go to the animal shelter
• Sponsorship: Sign up for dog or cat sponsorships at the stand
• Volunteer: If you want to help voluntarily, you can find contact information here