518. Gallimarkt

The 517th Gallimarkt will take place from October 14 to October 18, 2026. Its integration into the city center gives this folk festival its special charm, making it one of the ten most popular in Germany. Around 250 rides and stalls, as well as a large festival tent, ensure fun, action, and a great atmosphere. The scents of roasted almonds, bratwurst, hot Berliners, and much more whet the appetite for various market specialties. The Gallimarkt always begins with the cattle market on the Nesse. This market is unique in its character and is one of the largest cattle markets in Europe. Here, trading is still done with a handshake. The so-called "Klopperei," the negotiation of the purchase price through mutual "high-fiving" of hands, is a fascinating spectacle. The buildup for the Gallimarkt already begins the evening before (Tuesday from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM). The official trading takes place on Wednesday morning starting at 6:00 AM. The actual Gallimarkt, the fair around the Große Bleiche, is always opened on Wednesday at 11:30 AM from the steps of the old town hall. During this event, the three heralds make their grand appearance, standing beside the mayor in colorful costumes. Celebrations at the market continue daily until around midnight. For a cozy conclusion, the many pubs in the old town around the festival grounds are inviting. Special highlights include the fireworks over the harbor on Friday starting at 10:00 PM, the lantern parade on the harbor on Saturday starting at 6:45 PM (the town hall bridge will be opened around 7:00 PM), and the showman’s church service on Sunday at 10:00 AM in the festival tent. On Gallimarkt Sunday, the shops in Leer will open from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and the showmen at the market will entice visitors with a happy hour starting at 6:00 PM on Sunday evening.