Hildesheim Wine Festival

Wine in a UNESCO World Heritage Setting

Few wine festivals in Germany take place against such a backdrop: the historic market square of Hildesheim, with the reconstructed Knochenhauer-Amtshaus, the Tempelhaus, and the surrounding half-timbered houses, forms one of Lower Saxony's most impressive public spaces. The city's World Heritage surroundings – the Mariendom Cathedral and St. Michael's Church are just a few minutes' walk away – lend the wine festival an atmosphere that goes far beyond the usual town festival vibe.

Winemakers and Wine Regions

The participating winemakers come from classic German wine regions: Mosel, Rheingau, Rheinhessen, Pfalz, Franken, Baden, Württemberg, and Saale-Unstrut have been regularly represented in recent years. The selection includes white, red, and rosé wines, sparkling wines, and often non-alcoholic options and regional specialties. Wines are usually served by the glass, allowing visitors to compare and discover several wines at their leisure.

Gastronomy as a Companion

Wine deserves suitable food: Hildesheim restaurateurs and regional providers present cheese, sausages, bread, tarte flambée, pasta, regional specialties, and also sweet treats like crêpes and desserts. The gastronomic offer is deliberately diverse to ensure there is something for every guest.

Wine Queen and Musical Accents

The presence of a Wine Queen is a tradition at many German wine festivals. In 2026, Wine Queen Lisa Fesser is expected in Hildesheim and will represent her region on stage and in conversation with visitors. Musical contributions – acoustic sets, jazz trios, accordion players – create the right atmosphere without overpowering conversations.

Five Days of Program

The wine festival runs from Wednesday to Sunday. Wednesday and Thursday opening hours are 1 PM to 11 PM, Friday and Saturday until midnight, and Sunday until 8 PM. This staggered schedule allows for quiet Wednesday and Thursday evenings focused on conversation and tasting, livelier Friday and Saturday evenings with a festive atmosphere, and a cozy Sunday for families and latecomers.

Free Admission

As with many Hildesheim town festivals, admission to the wine festival is free. You only pay for what you actually consume. Deposit glasses are usually mandatory and can be returned after the visit or kept as souvenirs.