Darmstadt Heinerfest

"Come one, come all!" Every year, this invitation draws several hundred thousand visitors from near and far to indulge in the joyful festivities in downtown Darmstadt, centered around the Darmstadt Residenzschloss. With nearly 150 free cultural events, carousels, and culinary delights from around the world, we will celebrate together for five days.

Why Heinerfest?
In the winter of 1950—six years after the devastating bombing raid on Darmstadt—the bold idea was born to hold a local festival amidst the rubble. "Triumph of joy over the gloom of the post-war years" was the motto at the time. What should the new festival be called? A call was made to the public, who overwhelmingly voted for "Heinerfest," which would henceforth be celebrated around the Residenzschloss.