Neumünster Spring Fair

A Market Tradition Since 1654

Neumünster in the state of Schleswig-Holstein has a long market tradition: Fairs have been held in the city since the 17th century, forming integral parts of the event calendar in Middle Holstein. The Neumünster Spring Fair is the first of the year's three major fairs — followed by the summer and autumn fairs. With over 350 years of history, it is one of the country's oldest continuous market events.

Over 50 Showmen at Jugendspielplatz Carlstrasse

For years, the venue has been the Jugendspielplatz Carlstrasse behind the Holstenhallen — a large area near the city center that accommodates the typical fair attractions:

• Carousels, Ferris wheel, and classic rides
• Children's rides and children's carousels
• Wilde Maus, dodgems, possibly roller coasters
• Game stalls, shooting galleries, and prize wheels
• Snack stands — bratwurst, fries, crêpes, cotton candy, candied almonds

Over 50 showmen are expected in 2026 — a number that makes the fair one of the largest spring fairs in Schleswig-Holstein.

Four Days and Ascension Day as the Highlight

The fair runs in 2026 as follows:

• Friday, May 8th (2 PM–11 PM) — Opening
• Saturday, May 9th (2 PM–11 PM) — Main operating day
• Sunday, May 10th (2 PM–10 PM) — Family operation
• Monday, May 11th (2 PM–9 PM) — Ascension Day, Family Day with reduced ride prices

An Institutional Tradition in the City of Neumünster

In the independent city district of Neumünster, the Spring Fair is an institutional event organized by the city itself — managed by the market office, supported by municipal infrastructure, and attended by generations. Anyone growing up in Neumünster knows the Spring Fair as an annual fixture — and with the aroma of candied almonds, the start of the market season is one of the sensual harbingers of summer.