German-American Volksfest

German-American Volksfest

July-August

The German-American Volksfest is a cultural fair and carnival held each summer in Berlin, Germany, that celebrates American life and the close relationship of the German and American peoples.
The Volksfest was first celebrated in 1961, closing on August 13th of that year as the Berlin Wall was being erected to separate East and West Berlin. Each summer since that time, visitors to the fairgrounds at the intersection of Clayallee and Argentinische Allee in Berlin-Dahlem have strolled the U.S. Main Street and enjoyed a typical American carnival midway with more than 100 rides and games. Food vendors offer such traditional American fare as hot dogs and hamburgers, and beverage stalls sell beer and wine imported from the United States. Activities include daily bingo games in the casino and a pageant naming Mr. and Miss German-American Volksfest. History and cultural exhibits are also presented, with each year's festival highlighting a unique theme, such as a particular state or region within the United States. Past themes have showcased New Orleans, Louisiana, and the Mississippi riverboat culture of the 19th century, the quaint New England charm of autumn in Massachusetts, and the trend-setting southern California style of Los Angeles. Other exhibits draw attention to modern or historic events that have strengthened German-American relations, such as the Berlin Airlift of 1948.
More than 500,000 people attend the Volksfest each year, enjoying a continuous program of musical entertainment that ranges from country music and rock-n-roll to Motown soul and Memphis blues.

CONTACTS:
Hans Purwin KG
Riemerstrasse 11
Berlin 13507 Germany
www.deutsch-amerikanisches-volksfest.de/e-start.htm