Schlaucherplatzfest Daxlanden (Maibaumfest)

Walpurgis Night — Maypole Raising under Festival Tent

The event kicks off on Thursday evening, April 30th, 2026, starting at 5 PM, with the traditional Maypole raising on Schlaucherplatz. The Daxlanden Music Association hoists the Maypole with muscle power and a lever — a ceremony rarely experienced in larger cities today. The Maypole raising is not just a folkloric ritual but also an act of neighborly self-affirmation: Daxlanden presents itself as an independent Karlsruhe district with its own character.

May 1st — May Day Festival with Weißwurst Breakfast

On Friday, May 1st, 2026, starting at 10 AM, Schlaucherplatz will be bustling. The Weißwurst breakfast opens the festival day — fresh sausage from the pot, sweet mustard, pretzels, and the first Weißbier of the day. At noon, the barrel tapping by representatives of the Citizens' Association, in the afternoon live music by the Music Association's band and guest bands. In the evening, a DJ takes over and keeps the mood going until 11 PM. Food and drinks are available at several club stands.

May 2nd — Family Day with Youth Band

Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, starting at 12 PM, is Family Day. The youth band of the Daxlanden Music Association presents its skills, and children can enjoy games, a bouncy castle, and craft activities. Food and drinks are available all day, and the festival concludes quietly in the late afternoon.

Daxlanden Citizens' Association — The Backbone

The organizers are the Daxlanden Citizens' Association and the Music Association. The Citizens' Association has maintained the neighborly tradition on Schlaucherplatz since the 1950s — organizing not only the Maifest but also the Schlaucherplatzfest in summer, the Christmas market, and numerous club evenings. The Music Association provides the musical backbone for all events.

Daxlanden — Karlsruhe's District on the Rhine

With nearly 12,000 inhabitants, Daxlanden is one of Karlsruhe's westernmost districts, located directly on the Rhine. The district retains a village-like charm amidst scattered orchards, the Rhine floodplain, and the industrial history of the former Rhine harbor. Visitors to the district should plan a walk in the Burgau nature reserve and a detour to the Rappenwört island.