Braunschweig hosts Lower Saxony's state festival for the first time, expecting over 300,000 visitors
The 39th 'Tag der Niedersachsen' opens in Braunschweig from 12 to 14 June, marking the city's debut as host of the biennial state festival.
A first for the 'City of Lions'
Braunschweig is hosting the 'Tag der Niedersachsen' for the first time in the event's history. The 39th edition of the state festival runs from Friday, 12 June, to Sunday, 14 June. Organisers expect more than 300,000 visitors to attend the three-day celebration in the city centre. Mayor Thorsten Kornblum (SPD) said the city would present itself from its best side.
We are proud to be hosting this special state festival for the first time. Together, we want to celebrate what unites Lower Saxony this weekend: our history, our culture and diversity, and above all, volunteering as the backbone of our society.
The festival, held every two years since 1981, rotates among cities in Lower Saxony. The state supports the organising municipality with a financial grant for project funding, typically up to 720,000 euros.
Programme and highlights
Organisers have put together around 125 hours of stage programming across seven stages. Ten themed promenades form the heart of the event. Musical highlights include concerts by bands Juli, Glasperlenspiel, and Braunschweig's own Jazzkantine. Around 270 exhibitors will present their offerings, and 1,300 participants in 82 groups will take part in traditional costume and festival parades. Several ministers from the Lower Saxony state government and Minister-President Olaf Lies (SPD) have announced they will attend.
Economic hopes and Sunday shopping
The city expects the festival to bring significant benefits to the local economy. Hotels are well booked and restaurants expect high footfall. Retail and regional service providers gain visibility. The third day of the event, Sunday, will be a shopping Sunday with stores open. Overall, Braunschweig hopes for supra-regional visibility, aligning with the state's new campaign slogan, 'Das ist groß' (That is great).
Travel and practical information
Admission to the entire festival is free. Braunschweiger Verkehrs AG has announced increased frequency on tram and bus lines for easier travel. However, several routes will be diverted, with details published on the city's website. Organisers recommend using the train to Braunschweig Hauptbahnhof, especially for out-of-town guests. All regional trains will run at maximum capacity around the weekend.
