Stuttgart Spring Fest

by Nicole Karsch-Meibom
Contributing writer


Those who know about it are counting the days until it’s time for the Stuttgart Spring Fest. On April 21, the first mayor of Stuttgart, Michael Föll, will officially open Europe’s biggest springtime party.

The Stuttgart Spring Fest attracts around 1.5 million guests to the Cannstatter Wasen fair grounds. A wide selection of stalls and confectionery stands, modern and traditional fairground rides, side-shows, beer tents, and catering stalls will offer every conceivable type of family fun and entertainment.

“It will be a really great festival with some of the world’s best attractions,” said festival spokeswoman Sabrina Kampe. “What makes it so special is the fact that we offer something for everybody.”

Like its twin party in autumn, the Stuttgarter Wasen, there will be loads of fun opportunities. Wednesday is family day and many rides offer special prices. Merry-go-rounds and carousels for every age group will offer reduced prices for families. There will also be free face painting, clowns and balloon artists.

“We want to make sure this is a family attraction. So, many fest tents offer special children’s menus and several fun rides provide short term babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy their rides, too,” Kampe said.

Traditionally set right beside the Volksfest is the “Krämermarkt,” or grocers’ market, with its great selection of pots and pans, ceramics or clothes, useful or unique stuff.

Upon discovering the multifaceted range of mom-and-pop shops, as well as arts and crafts stands, visitors can indulge in tasting and trying all the goodies in a relaxed atmosphere.

So, come here for a peaceful stroll after enjoying the rides.

As usual, a special parking lot will be provided for the safety and convenience of ladies. P10 is right next to the main entrance of the Spring Fest area. Authorities recommend using public transport. Busses and trains stop in the vicinity of the fest area (Stations Bad Cannstatt — S1, S2, S3, R1, R2, R8, Mercedesstraße — U1, U2, Bad Cannstatt Wilhelmsplatz — U13, Bus 52 and 55, Cannstatter Wasen — U11).
If you arrive by car, follow the signs “NeckarPark” guiding you to the parking lots. You can find a detailed map of the area at www.stuttgarter-fruehlingsfest.de/
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Keep in mind that a low emission zone has been implemented in Stuttgart. To enter the city, an “Emission Badge” (€5 to €10) is required for your vehicle. Not displaying a badge can result in a fine of €40. For more details, contact your car dealer.

The festival lasts until May 13. Opening hours are from noon to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon to midnight Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday.