Culture Calendar: May 2025

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE

May brings a burst of creativity and cultural celebrations across the DACH region – from art fairs and dance festivals to fireworks and culinary treats. Whether you’re into fine art or participating in your first marathon, there’s something for everyone this month.

Art Austria. Photo: Michael Otto / art-Port GmbH

ARTAUSTRIA,VIENNA (8–11 MAY)

This esteemed art fair features over 45 galleries showcasing a diverse array of art works, including paintings, sculptures and prints, spanning various genres and eras. While modern and contemporary pieces dominate, visitors can also encounter historical works, offering a comprehensive view of the art world. Set within the vibrant cultural hub of the MuseumsQuartier, the fair provides an engaging experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike.

www.art-austria.info

Art Austria. Photo: Michael Otto / art-Port GmbH

GENUSSFESTIVAL, VIENNA (9–11 MAY)

Vienna’s largest culinary festival returns to the city park once again. This annual event trans forms one of Vienna’s most beautiful parks into a showcase of Austria’s rich gastronomic heritage. With 100 stands, visitors can sample and purchase a diverse array of regional specialties from across the country. Producers and small-scale manufacturers personally present their delicacies, offering insights into traditional production processes and the stories behind their crafts.

www.events.wien.info

HAFENGEBURTSTAG,HAMBURG (9–11 MAY)

Every May, Hamburg celebrates its Hafenge burtstag (the harbour’s birthday), the world’s largest harbour festival, with a vibrant week end of maritime flair. Visitors can enjoy ship parades, open-ship tours, live music, international food stalls and the beloved tugboat ballet. A spectacular fireworks display over the Elbe on Saturday night completes this celebration of Hamburg’s beloved port.

www.hamburg.de/hafengeburtstag

ZÜRICH TANZT. Photo: Anna Maysuk / ZÜRICH TANZT

ZÜRICH TANZT,ZURICH (15–18 MAY)

Zurich transforms into a vibrant dance floor during ZÜRICH TANZT, a citywide festival that celebrates the art of movement. It offers a diverse programme featuring performances, parties, workshops, and crash courses across 27 venues throughout the city. Participants can immerse themselves in various dance styles, from Sunday raves and break dance battles to numerous performances and interactive sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a curious beginner, this festival invites everyone to experience the joy of dance.

www.zuerichtanzt.ch

ZÜRICH TANZT. Photo: Anna Maysuk / ZÜRICH TANZT

INTERNATIONAL MUSEUMS DAY, GERMAN (18 MAY)

Highlighting the vital role museums play in our culture and society, this global event invites visitors to explore collections and exhibitions around the world. Across Germany, numerous museums take part but with its rich and varied museum landscape, Berlin offers an especially rewarding experience for anyone looking to make the most of this special day.

www.museumstag.de

KLANGFRÜHLING BURGENLAND, FRIEDENS BURG SCHLAINING (24 MAY–1 JUNE)

Each May for the past 25 years, the city of Schlaining has hosted KLANGfrühling, a music festival that has grown from a local insider tip to an internationally recognised event. Set in the historic Friedensburg, the festival features a diverse programme of national and international artists. This year’s theme is dreams, reflected in a wide-ranging and poetic selection of performances.

www.klangfruehling.at

Würzburg Marathon. Photo: Würzburg Marathon

IWELT MARATHON,WÜRZBUG (25MAY)

This is one of few marathons in Germany that serves as a qualifier for the prestigious Boston Marathon. Held in spring, it’s a highly professional event that draws over 4,000 participants annually. For those looking for a shorter challenge, a half marathon option is also available – so no excuses!

www.wuerzburg-marathon.de

Würzburg Marathon. Photo: Würzburg Marathon

FESTIVAL FOR SHORT FILM,ANIMATION & MUSIC VIDEOS, VIENNA (27 MAY–1 JUNE)

This is Austria’s largest short film festival and a true highlight for short film enthusiasts. Since 2021, it has taken place in a hybrid format, both in person and online. The festival offers a fantastic platform for showcasing international short films, each no longer than 30 minutes, while also spotlighting emerging talents from Austria and around the world. This year, sub missions came in from 133 countries.

www.viennashorts.com