When you think of folk festivals in Munich, the obvious answers are the Wiesn, the Frühlingsfest, and the Auer Dult. But there’s another event that takes place every July and is still considered an insider’s tip . The Magdalenafest lasts a full 16 days and looks back on a history spanning centuries . Look forward to festival fun in the royal Hirschgarten, away from the crowds, at a celebration with a long history.
Origins in the 18th Century
From 1725 to 1728, Elector Max Emanuel had the Magdalenaklause built in the Nymphenburg Palace Park, which was named after Saint Mary Magdalene. Every year on her name day, July 22, the palace park opened its gates to the general public, making the hermitage accessible to everyone on that day. The spring that bubbles up here is said to have healing powers, which is why the hermitage became a place of pilgrimage. Finally, in 1790, the Nymphenburg Palace Park was permanently opened to the public, and a sort of fair sprang up around the Magdalenaklause.
Over the centuries, the festival changed locations several times: it first moved to Romanplatz before finding its current home in the Hirschgarten in 1958. That’s why the Magdalenafest is celebrating its 68th anniversary at its current location this year. From Saturday, July 4, through Sunday, June 19, you can dive right into the fun on the lawn right next to the large beer garden.
The Magdalenafest: Fun for the Whole Family
The Magdalenafest is the only folk festival in Munich that still takes place entirely on a meadow. That alone makes the event special and gives it a certain cozy atmosphere. Added to this is its manageable size, with about 25 carnival operators and vendors. That doesn’t mean, however, that there’s nothing to experience here. On the contrary, several rides are just waiting for you to give them a spin. From bumper cars to the Ferris wheel to the swing boat , you can enjoy a few rounds on these well-known classics. Food and drink stands on site will keep you well fed and hydrated.
You can also look forward to various market stalls selling spices, household goods, clothing, and more. Nothing stands in the way of an extensive shopping spree under the open sky . A special highlight are the two Family Days on Wednesdays, July 8 and 15. On both dates, you can expect discounts on the rides, and you can also look forward to special offers at the stalls. On the first Family Day, the little ones can also look forward to a visit from Kasperl, who will entertain you with his show starting at 4:00 p.m. The Madgalenafest is such a fun event for young and old alike, where everyone is sure to have a great time.
📍 Location: Royal Hirschgarten
📅 Dates: Saturday, July 4 through Sunday, July 19
💶 Price information: Free admission
