Oktobervolksfest Potsdam

Neuer Lustgarten — Festival Grounds in the Heart of Potsdam

The Neuer Lustgarten is a central park area in Potsdam's city center, located directly between the City Palace (now the seat of the state parliament) and the Havel River. Unlike the famous Sanssouci Parks, the Neuer Lustgarten is not used for leisurely strolls but as a venue for major events — from the spring Volksfest to Brandenburg city marketing events. The Oktobervolksfest is the traditional season finale of the Volksfest year.

Oktobervolksfest — Almost Four Weeks of Autumn Fair

Unlike shorter weekend Volksfeste, the Oktobervolksfest runs for almost four weeks — from October 2nd to 25th, 2026. This gives the festival the atmosphere of a large autumn fair, similar to the 'Größte Kirmes am Rhein' in Düsseldorf or the Cranger Kirmes in Herne. Rides and stalls open daily from 2 PM. Weekends are the busiest days, but a visit during the week is also worthwhile — fewer crowds, a more relaxed atmosphere.

Rides and Culinary Specialties

The Volksfest offers the typical range of a large Brandenburg autumn fair: Ferris wheel, roller coasters, carousels for children, classic rides like bumper cars and the 'Wellenflug' (wave flyer), plus game stalls, shooting galleries, and grabber machines. Culinary delights include classic Volksfest specialties — candied almonds, gingerbread hearts, bratwurst, Lángos, French fries — and in the beer tents, Brandenburg beer and live Schlager music.

Combine Volksfest and UNESCO World Heritage

Visitors to the Oktobervolksfest can combine their day or evening with other Potsdam attractions: a stroll through the Dutch Quarter, a visit to the Babelsberg Film Studio, or a short tour of Sanssouci Park. Travel from Berlin via S7 or RE1 train in 30 minutes. Admission to the Volksfest is free; costs apply only for rides, food, and drinks. Throughout the festival, there are regular family days with reduced prices, special events like 'Tag des Lichts' (Day of Light) with illuminated rides, or themed programs — visiting during the week offers a quieter atmosphere and shorter waiting times.