Oldenburg Kramermarkt

Over 400 Years of Volksfest Tradition

The Oldenburg Kramermarkt dates back to 1608, making it one of the oldest folk festivals in Northern Germany. With 419 editions by 2026, the festival has accompanied countless generations — from the Thirty Years' War through industrialization to the 21st century. This historical depth makes the Kramermarkt a piece of living city history.

Northern Germany's 5th Largest Volksfest

With a ten-day run, around 250 showmen and stalls, and hundreds of thousands of visitors, the Kramermarkt is among the major North German folk festivals. After Hamburg Dom, Bremen Freimarkt, Hannover Schützenfest, and Maschseefest, the Kramermarkt ranks fifth among the largest folk festivals in Northern Germany — an impressive status for a city of Oldenburg's size.

Traditional Parade on October 3rd

The traditional Kramermarkt parade is one of the festival's highlights. In 2026, it will take place on October 3rd — German Unity Day. Floats, music bands, and groups from Oldenburg and the region will parade through the city to the festival grounds, setting the mood for the event.

250 Showmen and Attractions

The grounds at the Weser-Ems-Hallen offer space for about 250 showmen. From the classic Ferris wheel to roller coasters, haunted houses, looping attractions, carousels, and skill games to modern high-tech rides, the entire spectrum of a large folk festival is represented. The 80-meter-high Nordturm offers spectacular views and is one of the festival's widely visible landmarks.

Three Large Fireworks Displays

Three fireworks displays mark the emotional highlights: the opening fireworks, the lantern parade fireworks on Friday, and the grand finale fireworks. The fireworks attract tens of thousands of spectators each year and offer a pyrotechnic show that concentrates the magic of the festival.

Snack Stalls and Volksfest Culinary Delights

A variety of snack stalls cater to visitors' culinary needs. Bratwurst, potato pancakes, fries, candied almonds, crêpes, gingerbread, doughnuts — the entire repertoire of German folk festival cuisine is represented. Beer, mulled wine, punch, and non-alcoholic drinks complement the offerings.