Summer Festival in the Kurpark — Enz Illumination Bad Wildbad 2026

Bad Wildbad — the Black Forest Spa

Bad Wildbad is located in the Enz valley in the Northern Black Forest, between Pforzheim and Freudenstadt. The town has been known as a thermal spa resort since the 17th century — the warm Wildbad water springs from 22 sources. The landmark is the historic Kurpark, which stretches along the Enz. Every year in July, the summer festival with the famous Enz Illumination takes place here — one of the most spectacular light installations in Southern Germany.

22,000 Light Cups on the Enz

The Enz Illumination is a light festival format where thousands of light cups are placed along and on the water of the Enz. In the Kurpark, paths, flowerbeds, and trees are decorated with additional lights. A total of 22,000 light cups characterize the staging — one of the largest light festivals in the Black Forest. The light installation starts at 5:00 PM and unfolds its full effect at dusk around 9:00 PM.

Club and Gastronomy Stands

The Kurpark becomes a festival ground: local clubs, restaurateurs, and restaurants in Bad Wildbad serve food and drinks at stands. Black Forest specialties, bratwurst, vegetarian options, crêpes, and drinks from the Enz valley are offered. The proceeds from the club stands often go towards local club projects.

Music and Dancing

Bands play at several locations in the Kurpark — typically brass bands, Black Forest folk music, jazz trios, and dance bands. Dance floors and seating areas allow for relaxed enjoyment or active participation. Admission to the festival grounds is included in the ticket price.

Arrival by S-Bahn — Free with Ticket

A special feature of the Enz Illumination: anyone who has purchased an admission ticket can use the S-Bahn S6 between Pforzheim and Bad Wildbad for free from 4:00 PM on the festival day. This initiative promotes environmentally friendly travel and relieves the parking situation in Bad Wildbad — which is already heavily frequented on festival evenings.