From childhood heroes to Ferris wheel breakfasts: A colorful program around Karolinenplatz and Friedensplatz
From May 9th to 18th, the Darmstadt Spring Fair 2025 visitors to experience a lively festival atmosphere in the city center. Karolinenplatz and Friedensplatz will be transformed into a vibrant fairground with rides, market stalls, and culinary offerings – an experience for the whole family.

The official opening will take place on Friday, May 9th, at 6 p.m. in the beer garden on Karolinenplatz. Mayor Hanno Benz emphasizes the importance of the event for the city: "The spring fair is a successful example of revitalizing the city center. It brings new impetus to retail and mobility – and above all, joy to the people."
Family-friendly program and special events
The program offers numerous highlights:
- Breakfast in the Ferris wheel: On Sunday, May 11th, from 10 am, with a view over the city.
- Backstage tour: On Wednesday, May 14th, at 5 pm, with exciting insights into the life of the showman.
- Family Day: Tuesday, May 13 – all rides offer discounted prices.
- Childhood Heroes Day: Thursday, May 15, from 3 pm to 7 pm. Guests in costume receive two rides for the price of one. Featuring Pumuckl, Paddington, and free face painting.
Registrations for guided tours and special events can be found at:
👉 www.darmstadt-tourismus.de/fruehjahrsmess
Second weekend with "Darmstadt Mobil"
On May 17th and 18th, the "Darmstadt Mobil" event will complement the spring fair. In addition to a vehicle exhibition and the Electromobility Day, shops in the city center will be open on Sunday (May 18th) from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The Darmstadt weekly market will take place as usual on Saturdays, May 10th and 17th, in the market square. On May 17th, the culinary city tour "Darmstadt Market Chatter" starting at noon, featuring a walk with tastings, stories, and a glass of wine or grape juice. Tickets: €20, available in advance only at www.darmstadt-tourismus.de/fuehrungen-highlights.
Opening hours of the Spring Fair 2025
- Sunday to Thursday: 12 pm to 10 pm (until 9 pm on May 18th)
- Friday and Saturday: 12–11 pm
This year's spring fair is supported by the company Merck . An overview of all booths, filter options by location, industry, or vegan offerings, as well as further information, can be found on the official event website.
