629. Palmkirmes Recklinghausen

Over 600 Years of Fair Tradition

With documented tradition dating back to the late 14th century (first mentioned in 1397), the Palmkirmes Recklinghausen is one of Germany's oldest Volksfeste. It takes place annually in the week before Palm Sunday – hence the name. The 629th edition in 2026 runs from Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 29, 2026, on the traditional Saatbruchgelände at Kurt-Oster-Straße 2, Hillerheide district. With over 180 showmen and approx. 1 million visitors, it is undisputed the largest spring fair in North Rhine-Westphalia.

2026 Programme Highlights

Opening Friday, March 20, 2026

• 2:00 PM: Opening with the first 15 minutes of free carousel rides
• 6:00 PM: Official opening ceremony with the mayor's speech and ceremonial beer tapping

Weekend Special Sundays

Sundays open from 11:00 AM instead of 2:00 PM (weekdays). On Sunday, March 22nd at 10:00 AM: Showmen's Service — a special tradition.

Children's Day — Tuesday, March 24

From 4:00 PM onwards: Meet-and-Greet with stars from popular children's series — character mascots from current kids' TV formats will parade through the fair.

Family Day — Wednesday, March 25

With discounted admission and ride prices, ideal for extended family visits.

HIGHLIGHT: Music Fireworks Thursday, March 26

The grand music fireworks at 9:30 PM are the absolute highlight. Synchronized to a musical score, the Saatbruchgelände is transformed into a spectacle of light. Tens of thousands flock to Recklinghausen for this evening.

New Attractions 2026

Three spectacular new additions:

• Airwolf 22 — Latest generation looping swing ride
• Poco Loco — WORLD PREMIERE, new ride with innovative mechanics
• Havanna Fun Garage — new themed ride in Caribbean style

Opening Hours

• Monday–Thursday: 2:00 PM–11:00 PM
• Friday–Saturday: 2:00 PM–12:00 AM (Opening Friday from 2:00 PM with special program)
• Sunday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM

Recklinghausen-Hillerheide

The Saatbruchgelände is located in the Hillerheide district in southwestern Recklinghausen, near the Vestlandhalle. Spread over several hectares, you'll find rides, carousels, haunted houses, a Ferris wheel, shooting galleries, food stalls — a complete fair city for 10 days.