Rathenow City Festival

An Optician City Celebrates Itself

Rathenow is the historic "Optician City": Johann Heinrich August Duncker founded Germany's first optical manufactory here in 1801, long before Carl Zeiss became known in Jena. Today, the tradition has evolved — the historic cradle remains, but daily city life is being reshaped. The Rathenow City Festival is one of the largest Volksfeste in the Havelland and always the most important summer festival of the year in the city.

Three Days of Festival Mile

The city festival traditionally begins on Friday from 2 PM and lasts until midnight. Saturday is the most intense day — from 11 AM to 1 AM, the stages fill with music, the streets with showmen, and the squares with families. Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM, the festival concludes with a brunch atmosphere, early morning drinks (Frühschoppen), and smaller program points.

Alberti Funfair — Regular Guest for 40+ Years

A special feature of the Rathenow City Festival: The Alberti showman business has been a regular partner for over 40 years, shaping the funfair with rides, carousels, and game stalls every year. This continuity between the city and the showman family is rare in Germany and makes the festival a special example of grown festival culture.

Music, Sports, and Family Offers

Bands, DJs, and show groups alternate on several stages — from Schlager (popular German music) to pop and rock. Sports competitions, Bobby-car races, children's programs, and club stands expand the offerings. Free admission, payment only at the stalls and for the rides.

Rathenow in the Havelland

Rathenow is located on the Havel river in the Havelland district and, with around 24,000 inhabitants, is one of the larger medium-sized towns in the region. Visitors to the city festival can combine their day with a walk along the Havel riverbank or a visit to the Optikpark (former BUGA site) — both attractions are within walking distance.