If you’ve been dreaming about Germany in the fall (steins of beer, twinkling lights, yummy food and joyful crowds), your mind probably goes straight to Munich’s Oktoberfest. But… here’s a little travel secret: Bremen has its very own version, just as fun and even older. Known as Freimarkt, it’s often called the Oktoberfest Bremen, and it’s one of the biggest and most exciting folk festivals in northern Germany.
In 2025, the Bremen Oktoberfest 2025 will once again take over the Hanseatic city from October 17 to November 2, filling the streets and squares with music, food, and excitement. Whether you’re a travel pro or planning your first big trip to Germany, this event is a reason to put Bremen on your map!
Keep reading to discover more
🎡 🍺 🌰
🎡 Freimarkt Bremen: a festival with deep roots
Freimarkt isn’t just another fun fair in Germany. It’s nearly 1,000 years old, first celebrated in 1035 when Emperor Conrad II granted Bremen the right to hold a free market. Back then, it was a place for merchants and farmers to trade, mingle, and celebrate. Today, it’s transformed into a lively mix of rides, beer tents, live music, and plenty of delicious regional food. The locals even call it the “fifth season” because for 17 days every year, Bremen is all about the Freimarkt.
🏙️ Two locations, twice the fun
The Freimarkt happens in two spots, each with its own personality:
The Bürgerweide: This is the big fairground near the main train station. Think rollercoasters, Ferris wheels, candy stalls, and endless fun. This is where you’ll find the festival atmosphere that makes people compare it to the Oktoberfest in Munich.
The Old Town Freimarkt (Kleiner Freimarkt): Right on Bremen’s historic market square, this smaller version is pure charm. Wooden stalls, roasted almonds, handicrafts, and folk performances sit in the shadow of the UNESCO-listed Town Hall and the Roland statue. It’s the cozy, traditional side of the fair.
🍺 What to expect in 2025
A day at the Bremen Oktoberfest 2025 has something for everyone:
Thrilling rides: From rollercoasters to classic carousels, it’s fun for kids and adrenaline fans.
Traditional beer tents: Grab a stein of Bremen beers and dance on the benches while bands play lively tunes.
Delicious food: Warm chestnuts, hearty sausages, crispy fish sandwiches, and the sweet favorite “Schmalzkuchen.” Pair it with a local Bremen Germany beer, and you’re set.
Parade day: On October 18, 2025, Bremen hosts a massive parade with floats, costumes, and music. It’s a highlight you don’t want to miss.
Best of all, entry to the Freimarkt is free; you only pay for rides, food, or drinks.
✨ Why Bremen is the perfect festival city
Bremen may not be as world-famous as Munich, but that’s part of its charm. It’s welcoming, walkable, and full of history.
- The historic center shines with its Town Hall and Roland statue, both UNESCO sites.
- The Schnoor quarter feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with its tiny medieval houses.
- The Bremen Town Musicians statue is a must for a playful selfie.
- Along the Weser promenade, you can relax and enjoy a slower side of the city when you need a break from the fair.
Pair all this with the excitement of the Oktoberfest Bremen, and you’ve got the perfect autumn trip!
🧳 Travel tips for 2025
Dates:
October 17 – November 2, 2025
Getting there:
Bremen Airport is just 15 minutes from the city center by tram, with easy connections from across Europe. Trains link Bremen to Hamburg, Berlin, and beyond.
What to wear:
Traditional outfits like dirndls and lederhosen are welcome, but not required. A warm jacket and comfy shoes will do.
Family-friendly:
The Freimarkt is more than just beer, it’s a classic fun fair in Germany with plenty for kids to enjoy.
💡 Why you should go
If Munich feels too crowded or overdone, Bremen’s Freimarkt offers you the same joy of celebration but with a more authentic, local vibe. It’s beer tents and sausages, music and dancing, rides and laughter, but it’s also history, community, and northern German warmth. The Bremen Oktoberfest 2025 is more than just a party, it’s a tradition nearly a thousand years old, kept alive by people who love their city and welcome visitors with open arms. 😊
Top related articles:
Fun facts Bremen
One day in Bremen
The most Instagrammable places in Bremen
Bremen on a budget
Bank holidays in Germany 2025
Bremen’s Freimarkt 2025: FAQs
When is Bremen’s Freimarkt 2025 taking place?
Bremen’s Freimarkt 2025 runs from October 17 to November 2, 2025. For 17 days, the city turns into one big celebration with rides, beer tents, food stalls, music, and parades. It’s one of northern Germany’s most exciting events and a great reason to visit Bremen in the fall.
What is Bremen’s Freimarkt and why is it special?
Freimarkt is one of Germany’s oldest folk festivals, first celebrated in 1035. What started as a medieval market is now a vibrant mix of fairground rides, traditional food, live music, and beer tents. Locals call it the “fifth season” because it brings so much joy and energy to the city.
Where does the Freimarkt in Bremen take place?
The Freimarkt happens in two main locations. The Bürgerweide fairground, right next to Bremen’s main train station, is the lively spot for rollercoasters, Ferris wheels, and beer tents. In the Old Town, the smaller “Kleiner Freimarkt” offers a charming, traditional feel with wooden stalls and folk performances.
Is the Bremen Freimarkt similar to Oktoberfest in Munich?
Yes—Bremen’s Freimarkt is often called the Oktoberfest of northern Germany. Just like in Munich, you’ll find beer tents, music, and parades. The big difference is that Bremen feels more local and less crowded, while still offering the same fun atmosphere with a touch of tradition.
How much does it cost to visit Bremen’s Freimarkt 2025?
Entry to the Freimarkt is free, so you can walk around and enjoy the festive atmosphere at no cost. You’ll only pay for the rides, food, drinks, or souvenirs you want. That makes it easy to plan a visit that fits your budget.
What can I eat and drink at the Freimarkt?
Food is one of the highlights of the festival. You’ll find roasted almonds, chestnuts, crispy fish sandwiches, sausages, and the local favorite “Schmalzkuchen,” which are little fried doughnuts covered in sugar. Pair these treats with a glass of Bremen beer and you’re all set.
What events or highlights shouldn’t I miss?
The parade on October 18, 2025, is one of the biggest highlights of the Freimarkt. Expect floats, costumes, marching bands, and a festive vibe across the city. Of course, the beer tents, live music, and rides are part of the daily fun too.
Is Bremen’s Freimarkt family-friendly?
Yes, the Freimarkt is perfect for families. Beyond the beer tents, there are plenty of kid-friendly rides, carousels, and games. The smaller Old Town Freimarkt also has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that kids will love.
How can I get to Bremen for the Freimarkt?
Bremen is easy to reach. Bremen Airport is just 15 minutes from the city center by tram. You can also arrive by train with fast connections from Hamburg, Berlin, and other German cities. Once in Bremen, everything is within walking distance or a quick tram ride away.
Where should I stay during Bremen’s Freimarkt 2025?
The best place to stay is the MEININGER Hotel Bremen Hauptbahnhof. It’s right by the main train station, so you’re only steps from the Bürgerweide fairground and a short walk from the Old Town Freimarkt. The hotel is modern, budget-friendly, and perfect for enjoying the festival and exploring Bremen. Book early because rooms go fast during the Freimarkt!
🛎️ Where to stay in Bremen
Book a room at the MEININGER Hotel Bremen Hauptbahnhof. It’s right by the main train station, putting you steps away from the Bürgerweide fairground and just a short stroll to the Old Town Freimarkt. Comfortable, modern, and budget-friendly, it’s the perfect base for enjoying the festival and exploring Bremen at your own pace.
Address: Rosa-Parks-Ring 1, 28195 Bremen, Germany
🎡 🍺 🌰
BOOK EARLY!
