Stadtfest Elze – Elze im Wunderland

200 Years of Reconstruction – A Historic Anniversary

In 1826, Elze, a small town in the southwestern Hildesheim district, was almost completely destroyed by a devastating town fire. The reconstruction significantly shaped the town and created its present-day appearance. In 2026, the reconstruction marks its 200th anniversary – an occasion that will be honored with a special town festival. The motto 'Elze im Wunderland' contrasts the sober historical occasion with a fantastic, inviting world, making the anniversary accessible to a broad audience.

Four Days of Fantasy and History

From May 14th to 17th, 2026, the Elze city center will become the stage for an extraordinary program. Knights, pirates, Steampunks, dragons, dinosaurs, and mysticism will fill the streets and squares, with various worlds overlapping to create an atmosphere closer to a theme park than a classic town festival. This ambitious staging is complemented by a dense program of stalls, stage music, show acts, and interactive stations.

Over 50 Stalls

More than 50 stalls will be spread throughout the city center: market stalls with food and drinks, themed sales booths (fantasy accessories, Steampunk fashion, wood crafts, toys, books), interactive stations, and information points about the town's history. The mix ensures variety and keeps the festival mile interesting even for a stroll.

Stages and Music

Several stages will be located throughout the city center, offering music from various genres – fitting the fantastic staging, medieval rock, symphonic fantasy sounds, acoustic sets, and pop are featured, as well as smaller theater and show acts.

Jugglers, Fire Show, and Walking Acts

Jugglers will roam the city center, walking acts in imaginative costumes will characterize the streetscape, and a fire show will add dramatic accents on several evenings. The fire show during the evening illumination is one of the visual highlights of the festival.

Children's Program

A separate, extensive program is planned for children: a treasure hunt through the Elze city center with riddles and stations, guided archery, puppet theater with classic fairy tales, a hands-on circus with acrobatics, juggling stations, and movement games. Families can find program items for their children throughout the day.

Prof. Abraxo – A Journey Through History

A special program item is Prof. Abraxo, who takes visitors on a journey through Elze's history. This entertaining presentation of historical knowledge connects the anniversary occasion with the fantastic festival motto, making the town festival an educational event as well.

Free Admission

Despite the elaborate program, admission to the entire festival area is free. You only pay for what you consume at the food and sales stalls.