Herbstmarkt Land & Leute Maximilianpark

From Mine to Adventure Park

The Maximilianpark Hamm is a prime example of German structural change. A hard coal mine was established here at the end of the 19th century—the Maximilian mine was intended to produce, but ran into difficulties and was never successful as a major mining operation. The buildings were repurposed for the 1984 State Garden Show and are now a vibrant city park covering 22 hectares—best known for the walkable "Elephant", a 35-meter-high engine house that has become a landmark. The Herbstmarkt Land & Leute takes place annually in this park—and in 2026, it runs from October 2nd to 4th (Friday to Sunday, with German Unity Day on October 3rd in the middle).

What Makes the Market Special

The autumn market is not a classic weekly market, but a curated mix of:

• Craftsmanship: Wood, ceramics, metal, textiles, blacksmithing
• Music and Dance: Folk music, folklore groups, regional bands
• Culinary Specialties: regional, seasonal, traditional
• Demonstrations: Knife sharpener demonstration, show baking, show distilling
• Seasonal Products: Pumpkins of all kinds, potatoes, apple varieties
• Preserves: Jams, chutneys, mustard, liqueurs
• Garden Decoration: from lanterns to scarecrows
• Rabbit Exhibition: in the workshop hall with breeders and animals

Distribution in the Park

The events are spread across various areas of the park:

• Maximilianhalle — covered exhibition area
• Parkwiese am Elefanten — stalls and stage
• Aktio Nord — family area with children's activities
• Werkstatthalle — rabbit exhibition by regional breeder associations

During the market, the additional entrance Ostwennemarstraße/Alter Grenzweg is also open—a welcome convenience for visitors from the surrounding districts.

Admission Prices

• Adults: €8
• Children: €4
• Family Ticket (1 adult + up to 3 children): €15
• Family Ticket (2 adults): €21
• Maxipark Annual Pass Holders: Free
• RUHR.TOPCARD Holders: €1 surcharge per adult

Mobility Notice

During market days, a ban on scooters, e-scooters, and skateboards applies throughout the Maximilianpark. This is unusual but has practical reasons: with dense visitor flows on the paths, safety is paramount.

Why a Visit is Worthwhile

The Maximilianpark itself is an experience—industrial culture, sculpture garden, the walkable elephant. The autumn market adds a whole new layer: regional crafts, seasonal specialties, the autumnal ambiance under the large beech trees. Anyone looking for a day trip from the Ruhr area, Münsterland, or Sauerland with a harvest-time feel will find it here.