Gelsenkirchen has a lively and exciting events schedule, particularly in the warmer seasons of spring and summer. The Castle Fest, Jazz Days and Gespaña celebrations are just a few of these fun and festive events in Gelsenkirchen.
Schlossparkfest (Castle Berge summer festival)
Every July, the Castle Park Fest is at the forefront of the Gelsenkirchen event calendar. The venue is the Schloss Berge (Berge Castle), a Baroque/Classical mix of a building with a history going back to 1264. This area is a green oasis in a chiefly industrial area and visitors flock here for the trees, lake, garden and of course, the castle itself.
The castle was renovated in 1977 and is used for a variety of purposes.
There’s no better time to visit than during the festival time. The fifty-year tradition brings throngs of guests to this always-popular spot. The festival culminates in a huge fireworks display.
Jazz Tage (Jazz Days)
This Gelsenkirchen event is scheduled for every second weekend in September. Bands from all over the world descend upon Gelsenkirchen to play their own particular version of jazz music. Some years boast as many as 200 musicians who come to play at the Jazz Days.
The music isn’t even limited to just jazz, you may also hear the tunes of country, Boogie Woogie, salsa or of course, rock n’ roll.
Gespaña
Gespaña is another must-see and must-experience Gelsenkirchen event. During this festival, you will find the cultures of Spain (España) and Germany intertwined. Experience the romance of Spain with the flamenco music and poetry recitals of such great Spanish authors like Federico García Lorca. Have a taste of some Spanish tapas, small treats served with a beer.
This festival has been taking place for over a decade in the month of May. So if you’re visiting at just the right time, you’ll be able to find a little bit of the Mediterranean culture in the middle of Germany!