November in Germany: Discover What's On For Festivals And Culture.

November in Germany is officially shoulder season. A wonderful period of time between the seasonal crush of tourists where life moves at a slower pace. Albeit, slightly more damp-ish.

Weather During November in Germany

No matter how much you like your traveling partner, layers are going to be your best friend this time of year.

The late autumnal season brings shorter and cloudier days. And along with them, a greater likelihood of rain with the possibility of snow closer to the Alps.

Temperatures generally range between 4-10°C with the north typically milder than the south.

All of this harkens the eventual opening of Christmas markets throughout the country towards the end of the month. So while there's light at the end of the tunnel, there's still plenty to do before the lights of Christmas arrive.

Allerheiligen & Allerseelen

All Saints' Day (Allerheiligen) on November 1 and All Souls' Day (Allerseelen) on November 2 are significant observances in Germany. Traditionally, families visit cemeteries to honor deceased loved ones, adorning graves with candles and flowers. These days offer a poignant reflection on remembrance and the passage of time, deeply rooted in German cultural and religious practices.

Leonhardifahrt Bad Tölz

When thousands pack the streets and narrow alleys of Bad Tölz in November (generally held on the 6th each year), with the clatter of hooves and the buzz of cheerful voices filling the air, it means one thing: the Leonhardifahrt Bad Tölz, one of Germany’s most stunning horse pilgrimages, is in full swing. The Bavarian pilgrimage is also included on the nationwide list of intangible cultural heritage by the German UNESCO Commission.

Hamburger Dom

The Hamburger Dom is Germany's largest funfair, held thrice annually in Hamburg. The Winter Dom runs from November 8 until December 8, 2024, offering thrilling rides, games, and culinary delights. With a history dating back to the 14th century, it remains a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors.

Martinstag | St. Martin's Day

Held on November 11th, St. Martin's Day, or Martinstag, is celebrated across German-speaking Europe and has a fun, Halloween-esque vibe. It's all about the kids and nighttime festivities. School-aged children make their own lanterns and march through the night, singing traditional songs to the beat of drums.

Kölner Karneval | Cologne Carnival

Known as the "fifth season," Cologne Carnival officially kicks off on November 11 at 11:11 AM. This lively event marks the beginning of the carnival season, featuring colorful parades, music, and street festivities. While the main celebrations peak in February, the November launch is a vibrant spectacle that sets the tone for the months ahead.

Münchner Bücherschau | Munich Book Fair

Celebrating its 65th edition this year, the Münchner Bücherschau is a literary haven for book enthusiasts. Running from November 14 to December 1, 2024, at the Haus der Kunst, the event features over 200 publishers showcasing more than 13,000 titles. Visitors can attend readings, discussions, and workshops, making it a must-visit for those passionate about literature.

Tollwood Winter Festival

From November 26 to December 23, 2024, the Tollwood Winter Festival on Munich's Theresienwiese offers a unique blend of cultural events, organic gastronomy, and a "Market of Ideas" featuring international crafts. Known as Munich's "alternative Christmas market," it emphasizes sustainability and multiculturalism, providing a platform for artistic expression and environmental awareness.

Filmfest Düsseldorf

Filmfest Düsseldorf is an annual celebration of cinema, showcasing a diverse selection of films from around the globe. Held November 27-29th, the festival features screenings, workshops, and discussions, providing a platform for filmmakers and cinephiles to engage and explore contemporary cinematic trends.

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