German Grape Harvest Festival with w.i.n.e.FESTival

Wine and enjoyment go hand in hand and meet in the heart of the world's oldest wine route. The German Wine Harvest Festival is the highlight of the Palatinate wine fair season, attracting wine lovers like a magnet. The Haiselscher, the hospitable Palatinate wine village, spreads a cheerful atmosphere with new wine, Palatinate specialties, and an attractive live stage program from RPR1. The colorful fair makes not only children’s eyes sparkle.

The nostalgic Mirror Palace "Bon Vivant” in Hetzelplatz becomes the centerpiece of the w.i.n.e.FESTival. Cozy seating in the separées, at the wine bars, or in the Mediterranean garden invite wine lovers to linger.

In a festive atmosphere, the royal wine majesties are crowned in the Neustadt Saalbau: at the end of September, the candidates compete for the crown of the 78th German Wine Queen and at the beginning of October for the title of the Palatinate Wine Majesty. In the largest wine festival parade in Germany, the chosen majesties present themselves among lively groups of musicians and proud floats to their people.

The Highlights:
• Haiselscher: September 25 to October 11, 2026
• w.i.n.e.FESTival: October 1 to October 11, 2026
• Fair: October 2 to October 11, 2026
• Election of the Palatinate Wine Majesties: October 2, 2026
• Preliminary decision for the election of the German Wine Majesty: September 19, 2026
• Final - Election and crowning of the German Wine Majesty: September 25, 2026
• Grand Wine Festival Parade: October 11, 2026

Celebrate with us in the heart of the German Wine Route!

The wine festival parade on Sunday, October 11, 2026 is the dazzling highlight of the German Wine Harvest Festival. Numerous lovingly decorated festival floats, colorful traditional groups, lively music bands, and wine majesties present the diversity and joie de vivre of the Palatinate. The city center transforms into a vibrant spectacle that enchants thousands of visitors every year. Starting at 1:30 PM the grand parade with over 100 parade entries sets off and winds through the streets. Along the parade route, numerous refreshment stands invite you to enjoy regional wines, culinary specialties, and great atmosphere.