Wodanstraßenfest Dortmund-Nette

Street Festival with a Family Heart in the Mengede District

Those who only know Dortmund from Borsigplatz, Westenhellweg, and Phoenixsee haven't experienced the Wodanstraßenfest. In the northern district of Nette (Mengede district), far from the usual routes, an organizing committee has been hosting the annual street festival on Wodanstraße for years. On Saturday, May 9, 2026, it's that time again: From 3:00 PM to midnight, the houses between Ammerstraße and Donarstraße will turn into a festival mile — with a stage, family program, and new art offerings.

Program: Schlager, Drag, and Street Dance

In 2026, the central festival stage will host several acts embodying the concept of urban diversity combined with local Schlager music. Andreas Sommer, a well-known Schlager pop singer, will perform classic Schlager and party hits. This will be complemented by the Crazy Ladyboys, a recurring drag show that has enriched the program for years and ensures queer visibility in this traditional neighborhood festival. The Dortmund-based Streetblooms dance crew will present urban dance choreographies. Additionally, entertainer Dani Nova and a DJ will perform later in the evening.

Garden of the Arts — New in 2026

The 2026 edition marks a premiere: The Garden of the Arts will be created in the green spaces around house number 41 on Wodanstraße. Local artists will present paintings, sculptures, and crafts in an open-air gallery atmosphere. This expands the Wodanstraßenfest's concept to include a visual arts dimension, positioning it as a neighborhood festival with cultural aspirations.

Family Area in the Upper Street Section

Families with children will find a dedicated program in the upper section of the street: bouncy castles, craft stations, games, and children's activities are concentrated here — spatially separated from the stage area, allowing younger children to have fun in a quieter atmosphere. This spatial organization makes the festival family-friendly without sacrificing the lively party atmosphere.

Keg Tapping by Honorary Patron Gerhard Wendzinski

The opening is traditionally handled by the honorary patron. In 2026, it will be Gerhard Wendzinski, former state parliament member and a native of Nette. His keg tapping ceremony at 3:00 PM will kick off the festival — a symbolic gesture highlighting Nette as an independent district with political significance.

Traffic Management and Road Closure

Wodanstraße will be closed to traffic between Ammerstraße and Donarstraße starting at 1:00 PM (two hours before the festival begins). This allows the organizing committee time to set up the stage, stalls, seating, and safety barriers. The festival ends at midnight, followed by clearing. Residents and local businesses will be informed about the closure in advance.

Dortmund-Nette in the Mengede District

Nette is a district in the far north of Dortmund, belonging to the Mengede district. With around 8,500 inhabitants, Nette is a typical Ruhr area neighborhood — grown from old farms and a mining tradition. Wodanstraße is the central traffic axis of the district — and the Wodanstraßenfest has been the identity-forming summer festival where the neighborhood meets for years.