The Freimarkt in Bremen

Bremen has long been on my Germany travel wishlist.  As a child the story of the town musicians of Bremen captured my imagination. For those that don’t know the story follows four aging domestic animals who, after years of loyal service, find themselves neglected and mistreated by their owners. Fed up with their harsh treatment, they decide to run away and pursue a new life as musicians in the city of Bremen. Despite the title, the animals never actually reach Bremen. Along the way, they outwit a group of robbers, seize their loot, and settle into the robbers’ house instead.

But, what is there to see and do in Bremen apart from visit the statue of the town musicians?

Between 18 October and 3 November 2024, Bremen will once again host the Bremer Freimarkt, one of the oldest and biggest fairs in Germany. Every year, visitors flock from far and wide to enjoy this unique blend of tradition, entertainment and great food. We have put together a comprehensive overview of the history, the attractions and the highlights of a visit to the Freimarkt in Bremen.

History and origins of the Bremer Freimarkt

The Bremer Freimarkt can look back on a rich and varied history dating back as far as the year 1035. This historic event celebrates the freedom of the market granted to the city of Bremen in the 11th century. What began as a marketplace for merchants is now a major festival, complete with fairground rides, marquees and all sorts of entertainment options. But the Freimarkt has never lost sight of its historic roots. Traditional elements, such as the historic festival procession that attracts thousands of spectators every year, still form part of the festival.
Venues

The 100,000-square-metre Bürgerweide, right behind the main railway station, forms the heart of the Freimarkt. Visitors can enjoy more than 50 fairground rides, including spectacular rollercoasters and impressive big wheels, providing thrills and spills for all ages. There are more than 300 operators offering a lively combination of modern rides and traditional carousels.

If you prefer things a little calmer, you’ll love the smaller ‘Kleine Freimarkt’ on the market square in Bremen. Against the historic backdrop of the Bremen Town Hall and the Roland Statue, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, visitors can enjoy traditional delicacies including Knipp (a traditional sausage made with grain), Labskaus (a dish made with corned beef, potato and onion) and Bremer Klaben (a typical Bremen-style stollen). The lovingly crafted stands are based on historic designs, creating a cosy atmosphere and a lovely space to linger.

Traders and craftsmen demonstrate their skills and ply their wares in the medieval market village around the Liebfrauenkirche, accompanied by jugglers and musicians telling tales of bygone times. This historic setting provides an authentic glimpse into the early days of the Freimarkt and is a must for anyone interested in history.

Programme

The Freimarkt officially begins on Friday, 18 October, with the traditional hanging of a gingerbread heart on the Roland Statue and the threefold cry of ‘Ischa Freimaak’ to mark the opening of the ‘Kleine Freimarkt’. Next, it is off to the Almhütte for the festive build-up to the big opening of the fair on the Bürgerweide, where the carousels start turning at 4 p.m. One of the real highlights is the fireworks lighting up the skies above Bremen as of 9:45 p.m.

Freimarkt procession takes place on Saturday, 26 October. It starts in the Bremen new town at 10 a.m. and reaches the market square at around 11 a.m. More than 150 floats and walking groups take part, with prizes for the best offerings. This colourful procession is a feast for the senses and an absolute must for all visitors.

The Freimarkt finishes on 3 November with a traditional closing ceremony. The ‘funeral party’ bids a symbolic goodbye to the last visitors with roses, before the lights of the Freimarkt go out at 11 p.m. This ceremony is an emotional culmination to an unforgettable experience and gives visitors the opportunity to bid farewell to this wonderful festival.