Culture Calendar: September 2026

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

With the changing of the seasons comes a calendar packed with memorable experiences across the DACH region. From cultural highlights to time-honoured traditions, September is the perfect time to soak up the last days of summer and discover something new.

22^nd Festival of German Film, Ludwigshafen am Rhein (19 August – 6 September)

Set on the banks of the Rhine, the 22nd Festival of German Film transforms Ludwigshafen’s Parkinsel into a unique open-air cinema village, complete with festival tents, riverside screenings and lively discussions with filmmakers and actors. One of Germany’s best-attended film festivals, it celebrates the very best of contemporary German-language cinema, from acclaimed new releases to emerging directorial talent, all in a relaxed late-summer setting.

www.festival-des-deutschen-films.de

Stuttgarter Weindorf, Stuttgart (20 August – 5 September)

Stuttgart’s historic Marktplatz, Schillerplatz and Kirchstraße become the charming Stuttgarter Weindorf (Wine Village). Around 30 traditional winemakers serve hundreds of regional wines from Württemberg alongside classic Swabian specialities such as Maultaschen and Käsespätzle. With its vine-covered wine huts, relaxed atmosphere and warm hospitality, it’s one of Germany’s most beloved wine festivals.

www.stuttgarter-weindorf.de

Genussmeile Thermenregion Wienerwald. Photo: © Wienerwald Tourismus / Christian Dusek

Genussmeile, Vienna Woods (5 – 6 and 12 – 13 September)

On two consecutive weekends in September, the Vienna Woods Thermal Region is transformed into what locals proudly call the longest bar in the world. Stretching 15 kilometres along the route of Vienna’s first mountain spring pipeline, the Genussmeile invites visitors to stroll through vineyards while sampling regional wines, apple and pear ciders, and seasonal delicacies from local producers.

www.thermenregion-wienerwald.at/genussmeile

Berlin Art Week 2025, Julia Stoschek Foundation. Photo: Linus Muellerschoen

Berlin Art Week, Berlin (9 – 13 September)

Marking the start of Berlin’s autumn art season, Berlin Art Week turns the city into a vibrant hub for contemporary art. More than 100 museums, galleries, private collections, project spaces and an art fair come together for five days of exhibitions, performances, film screenings, talks and workshops. From internationally renowned artists to emerging creative voices, it offers a fascinating insight into one of Europe’s most dynamic art scenes.

www.berlinartweek.de

Zermatt Music Festvial & Academy (11 – 20 September)

Against the spectacular backdrop of the Matterhorn, the Zermatt Music Festival & Academy brings together world-class performers and the next generation of classical musicians. It combines orchestral and chamber concerts with masterclasses, workshops and intensive academy programmes. Renowned soloists, emerging talent and ensembles from the Valais region come together for ten days of exceptional music in one of the Alps’ most breathtaking settings.

www.zermattfestival.com

Rhein in Flammen, Oberwesel (12 September)

One of the Rhine Valley’s most stunning annual events, Rhein in Flammen sees beautifully illuminated riverboats glide past the legendary Loreley cliff as fireworks illuminate the night sky. Before the evening spectacle, Oberwesel’s traditional wine market invites visitors to sample regional wines while enjoying live music. As darkness falls, around 50 decorated vessels sail in convoy along the Rhine, culminating in a breathtaking choreographed fireworks display over the river.

www.rhein-in-flammen.com/oberwesel/oberwesel.html

Oktoberfest. Photo: Unsplash

Oktoberfest, Munich (19 September – 4 October)

The world’s most famous beer festival returns once more to Munich’s Theresienwiese, where visitors can step into a lively celebration of Bavarian culture. Vast beer tents, traditional fairground rides and food stalls serving pretzels, roast chicken and other regional specialities draw millions of people each year. Dressed in Dirndls and Lederhosen, revellers raise one-litre steins to the sound of brass bands, while colourful parades create an unforgettable atmosphere.

www.oktoberfest.de

Cannstatter Volksfest, Stuttgart (25 September – 11 October)

Dating back to 1818, the Cannstatter Volksfest is one of Europe’s largest and most celebrated folk festivals. Every autumn, Stuttgart’s 25-hectare Cannstatter Wasen fairground on the banks of the Neckar comes alive with traditional beer tents, fairground rides, market stalls and Swabian specialities. Welcoming more than four million visitors every year, the festival combines centuries-old traditions with a lively atmosphere that appeals to families, locals and visitors alike.

www.cannstatter-volksfest.de