Tierparkfest Herzberg (Elster)

The First Volksfest of the Year in Elbe-Elster

When the Elster river brings spring temperatures again, the year begins in Herzberg — with the Tierparkfest. Four days of festival grounds around the local zoo, a mix of Kirmes (funfair), concerts, family entertainment, and tradition, which has been running in its current form since 1992 and is supported by the Förderverein Herzberger Tierparkfest e.V. (Friends of the Herzberg Zoo Festival Association). The mascot — a duck named Eddy — adorns the posters and guides through the weekend with a wink.

Date 2026 and Program

The 2026 edition runs from Thursday, April 30th, to Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, traditionally on the first May holiday weekend. The festival grounds transform into a small Kirmes (funfair) with the Nessy roller coaster, Break Dance, bumper cars, and a dozen other rides. Two stages alternate between dance evenings, live bands, and family activities — from Walpurgis Night on Thursday to a relaxed family Sunday with sunset views at the zoo.

Headliner 2026 and Highlights

This year's headliner is Lena-Marie Engel, known as the voice of the dance duo Stereoact ("Die immer lacht", "Schaukelpferd"). On Saturday evening, the ABBA Unforgettable Show performs the global hits from Waterloo to Dancing Queen, followed by Nightfever Disco with the greatest disco classics until late into the night. Friday evening is traditionally dedicated to the younger generations with Mallorca hits and current chart music.

Herzberg Zoo and Family Program

Right next door is the eponymous Herzberg Zoo — small, charming, with local animals from fallow deer and donkeys to birds and a petting zoo. During the festival weekend, the zoo has extended opening hours. The family tent offers face painting, a play street, raffles, and the popular duck race puzzle.

Herzberg — the District Capital of Elbe-Elster

Herzberg is located in southern Brandenburg, in the Elbe-Elster district, about an hour's train ride from Berlin. The town, with its half-timbered houses and baroque St. Mary's Church, is a hidden gem for an extended May weekend — those visiting the Tierparkfest can combine it with a walk along the Elster river or a detour to the old cloth-making town.