Sommer Sonne Alaaf Paderborn

Carnival Leaves Cologne and Comes to Paderborn

Carnival is not just a thing of the Rhineland — anyone who thinks so has been mistaken for years. With festivals like Jeck im Sunnesching or Sommer Sonne Alaaf, the Cologne carnival sound has detached itself from February and spread into the summer and autumn. Sommer Sonne Alaaf brings Rhenish joie de vivre to East Westphalia's Paderborn — right in the middle of the hottest summer weeks.

Schloß- und Auenpark — The Ideal Open-Air Setting

The Schloß- und Auenpark Paderborn is a park area of around 30 hectares surrounding Schloß Neuhaus, a moated castle from the 16th century that was once the residence of the Prince-Bishops of Paderborn. Today, the ensemble is a venue for the Schlosssommer program, in which Sommer Sonne Alaaf 2026 is firmly anchored as one of the central program points. Address: Zur Gartenschau 14, 33104 Paderborn.

The 2026 Line-up

RheinEvents has put together a line-up that gathers the top acts of Rhenish carnival music:

• Cat Ballou — Pop hits like “Et jitt kei Wood” are mandatory in schoolyards
• Räuber — arguably the most famous Rhineland classic
• Domstürmer — the indestructible live band machine
• Klüngelköpp — the newcomers' favorites
• Mätropolis — fresh sound from the scene
• Knallblech — Brass meets Carnival

All bands will play live sets on the main stage, with DJ sets in between as transitions. The dramaturgy is designed for a continuous energy curve — a classic festival rhythm.

Schedule and Admission

• 2:00 PM — Admission
• 3:00 PM — First Band
• Evening — Festival End (exact time via vivenu.com)

A classic festival afternoon — not a late-night event, but family/adult-friendly during the day.

VIP Option

For those who prefer more comfort: The VIP package includes all-inclusive drinks, a separate VIP area with a lounge, private restrooms, and exclusive stage viewing areas. Recommended for groups who want to experience the festival without queuing.

Admission Information

• Minimum Age: 16 years (or with a legal guardian)
• Children under 6 years: Free admission
• Tickets: Online via vivenu.com, personalized
• Re-Entry: Not possible
• Prohibited: Large bags, tents, glass containers, own catering, professional cameras

Getting There

By car via the A33 (exit Paderborn-Schloß Neuhaus). Parking available at the festival grounds for a fee. By public transport: Bus lines 8, 16, 20, N8, 448, E8, R41, and S40 go near the palace.