When we first planned our honeymoon, we knew we wanted a mix of romance, culture, and a bit of fun. What we didn’t expect was that one of the most memorable experiences of our entire trip would involve giant beer mugs, lively folk music, and dancing on benches with complete strangers. Welcome to Cannstatter Volksfest!
A Little History Behind the Celebration
Before diving into our story, here’s a fun fact: Cannstatter Volksfest is actually the world’s second-largest beer festival, right after Oktoberfest in Munich. It dates all the way back to September 28, 1818, when King Wilhelm I celebrated his 36th birthday by organizing a grand agricultural festival at Cannstatter Wasen. Back then, it featured horse races and prizes for livestock breeders — far from the bustling beer paradise it has become today. Over two centuries later, the Volksfest still honors its roots but has evolved into a joyful mix of tradition, music, and modern festivity.
Falling in Love, Stuttgart Style
This was our first time at Cannstatter Volksfest, and let’s just say—it definitely won’t be our last. The moment we stepped into the festival grounds, we were greeted by rows of colorful tents, cheerful locals dressed in lederhosen and dirndls, and the irresistible aroma of sizzling sausages and pretzels. The energy was contagious; you could feel the excitement in the air.
We spent the evening hopping between beer tents, each offering a different vibe and style of music. From traditional folk tunes to energetic pop hits, every tent had its own personality. But our favorite, hands down, was the Sonja Merz Festzelt.
Inside the Sonja Merz Tent 🍺
The Sonja Merz tent was pure magic. The band was phenomenal—playing everything from classic German sing-alongs to lively party hits—and the crowd? Electrifying! At one point, everyone stood on their benches, beer mugs in hand, singing together like one big family. Strangers became friends, laughter filled the air, and for a few hours, the whole world seemed to fade away.
Even though we’re not regular beer drinkers, we were genuinely surprised by how much we enjoyed the local brews. Smooth, refreshing, and perfectly paired with hearty festival food—it was impossible to resist.
Food Worth Traveling For
Speaking of food, let’s talk about our culinary highlight: the currywurst. It was hands-down one of the best we’ve ever had—so good, in fact, we ordered it twice. Perfectly spiced, juicy, and served with crispy fries—it was the kind of comfort food that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. The prices were surprisingly reasonable, especially considering the quality and atmosphere.
Tips for First-Timers
One of the things we loved most about Cannstatter Volksfest is how accessible and affordable it is. There’s no admission fee, which means anyone can join the fun without worrying about tickets.
Getting there was a breeze — we simply hopped on the train to Cannstatter Wasen, and within minutes, we were right in the heart of the action. Stuttgart’s public transportation is punctual, clean, and incredibly easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors.
What We’d Do Differently Next Time
Next time, we plan to stay longer—both to soak in more of the Volksfest energy and to explore Stuttgart itself.
Final Thoughts
Our day at Cannstatter Volksfest turned out to be one of the most joyful and spontaneous parts of our honeymoon. It wasn’t just about beer or bratwurst—it was about connection, culture, and pure celebration. There’s something truly magical about sharing laughter and music with people from all over the world, all brought together by good vibes and even better beer.
So, if you ever find yourself in Germany during late September, skip the crowds of Munich and make your way to Stuttgart. Cannstatter Volksfest is where tradition meets heart—and trust us, you’ll leave with a full belly, a happy heart, and stories you’ll never forget.
Prost to love, laughter, and a lifetime of adventures! 💕🍻
