Schlossgartenfest University of Münster

Münster's University Celebrates in the Schlossgarten

The University of Münster (officially: Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität, since 2023 just "Universität Münster") is one of the largest universities in Germany with around 45,000 students. Its architectural landmark is the Prince-Bishop's Palace on Schlossplatz — today the university's main administration building — with the adjacent Schlossgarten, which also houses the Botanical Garden. Once a year, the rectorate invites you to the grand Schlossgartenfest: a summer evening for staff, students, alumni, and "friends of the university."

Three Phases: Family, Welcome, Dance

The festival is classically structured in three phases. Starting at 5 PM, the family and pre-program runs: the hands-on science program "Physics To Go" with interactive experiments, the Q.UNI stations for the youngest visitors, and from 5 PM (until 7 PM) free German-language guided tours of the Botanical Garden — registration is on-site, first come first served. Starting at 7 PM, the main stage opens: Rector Prof. Dr. Johannes Wessels welcomes guests, the University Big Band II plays, and university sports demonstrations are held. Afterward, DJ Alex takes over the stage and plays until 1 AM for the dance floor.

Botanical Garden as a Backdrop

The Botanical Garden of the University of Münster was founded in 1803 and, at nearly 7 hectares, is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Westphalia. During the Schlossgartenfest, the tropical houses and themed gardens are partially open — the guided botany tours explore plants from all over the world, maintained by university staff and housed in greenhouses, an arboretum, and thematic sections (Alpinum, medicinal plants, kitchen garden, rose garden).

Cashless, No Outside Food

The festival is strictly "cashless" — drinks are paid for exclusively by card. Outside food and drinks are not allowed for organizational and gastronomic reasons; several food trucks on site offer sweet and savory snacks. A professional photographer documents the festival for university communications — those who do not wish to be photographed can communicate this on-site.

Who Can Attend

All employees and "friends of the University of Münster" are invited — the term is broadly defined and includes alumni, cooperating institutions, support groups, and employees' families. No registration is required — just come. Admission is free. The Schlossgartenfest is considered one of the largest and most beautiful summer evenings in Münster's university calendar.

Getting to Münster City Center

Schlossplatz is located directly on the Promenadenring of Münster's old town. By train: Münster Central Station, then a 15-minute walk via Hammer Straße and Aegidiistraße to Schlossplatz. By bike, it's the quintessential Münster travel experience — bicycle parking is available around Schlossplatz. By car: Hörsterplatz and Aegidii parking garages are within walking distance.