After a couple of years break, the Kirmes in Köln Deutz is returning. The funfair will take place again twice yearly on the Deutzer Werft in the city of Cologne. In this post you can find out more about the history of the city of Cologne’s largest funfair, alongside further information about current highlights, entrance prices and how to get there.
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Kirmes in Köln-Deutz – History behind the event
Since the year 1997 the popular Kirmes (funfair) in the district of Cologne-Deutz has been taking place twice yearly. Over the years, the event has welcomed a mixture of modern and traditional rides & attractions – including classics such as the German fairground attraction “Break Dance”, the Giant Wheel and the “Wilde Maus” rollercoaster with hairpin turns.
However, the history of the funfair goes further back in time than to the year 1997. Before the Deutzer Kirmes was established, the funfair took place on the grounds of the city’s stadium – the Lanxess Arena – where many music concerts and events take place. The funfair was then moved to the riverside and has developed to become the Kirmes in Köln-Deutz as locals know it today.
History of funfair traditions and culture in Germany – Dating back to the 11th century
What’s more – tradition behind “Kirmes” in Deutschland goes back way further than when the first event took place on the grounds of the Lanxess Arena. Even in the 11th century the city received permission from Kaiser Konrad II to host a “Jahrmarkt” over the Easter period (the same time period during which the Spring Kirmes in Köln-Deutz takes place today). The Easter festival, alongside Christmas Markets took place at the location “Alter Markt”. They were then relocated to the “Heumarkt” on the 10th November 1876.
Rapid technological development through the 19th to 21st centuries
The 19th and 20th centuries saw a rapid development and technological advancements in fairground attractions. We can take a look over to the town of Ibbenbüren in the region of North Rhine-Westphalia, where the oldest toboggan run in the country opened for the first ride in 1926. The Sommerrodelbahn in Ibbenbüren celebrated its 100th anniversary during summer 2026. It’s still operating to this day.
Nowadays, the Kirmes in Köln-Deutz welcomes state-of-the-art attractions. In 2022, the world premiere of the attraction “Pandora” was celebrated on the Deutzer Werft. The ride was a brand new concept from “Fabbri” – an Italian amusement ride manufacturer. Other highlights over previous years have included the 85m tall star-flyer attraction “Aeronaut” and the world’s largest transportable rollercoaster, “Olympia Looping”.
Current highlights of the Deutzer Kirmes:
With the return of both the Frühlings- and Herbstvolksfest to the riverbank in Cologne, you’re surely to keen to find out about the newest highlights?
Alongside fairground classics such as the Dodgems, Giant Wheel & Spinning Mouse Rollercoaster, which you can expect at the event – the newest highlights include:
Hangover The Tower : The 85m free-fall tower is one of the tallest travelling fairground rides in the world. It’s been frequently spotted at the nearby Rheinkirmes. The Rheinkirmes event takes place every July in the city of Düsseldorf.
XXL Höhenrausch: The pendulum attraction is a state-of-the-art ride which swings high above the waters of the river Rhein in Cologne. If you’re afraid of heights or get dizzy , this one might not be for you.
Want to stay tuned with all the latest updates regarding this year’s funfair & other events in the city of Cologne? Follow me on social media to keep updated.
Food & Drink options at the fair
A visit to the funfair usually isn’t complete without trying out a few delicacies, right? The Kirmes in Köln-Deutz usually offers many traditional German Fairground Snacks. These include Pretzels, Mushrooms and Fried Cauliflower and Reibekuchen (potato pancakes).
There are many vegetarian and vegan options offered across the stalls at the fair.
Another great idea is to enjoy one of many bars along the riverbank. These have impressive views onto Cologne Cathedral. A perfect opportunity to watch the sunset.
When does the Kirmes in Köln-Deutz take place?
Spring & Autumn – A festival which takes place twice annually
The Kirmes in Köln-Deutz takes place twice annually. This is typically once during the Easter period and once during the Autumn (Halloween Period).
For the return of the funfair in autumn 2026, the event will take place on the following dates: 24.10.2026-01.11.2026.
For dates of future events, stay tuned to this page, alongside Traveller James social media channels. You can also view the official site of the funfair HERE.
The entrance to the Kirmes in Köln-Deutz is completely free of charge. Attractions, alongside games stalls and food, can be purchased individually. This enables visitors to stay as long as they like without a fixed entrance fee.
How do I get to the Kirmes in Köln?
The best way to reach the funfair in Cologne-Deutz is via public transport. The surrounding roads are usually closed off and there are limited parking spaces nearby.
To reach the funfair using public transport, take one of the following routes:
Regional Trains/S-Bahn Lines from Cologne Central Station to Cologne Messe-Deutz
Tram Line 7 from Heumarkt to Köln Deuzter Freiheit
Further day out ideas & inspiration in Köln
Are you looking for further day out ideas & inspiration alongside the city’s bi-annual funfair? Then you’re in exactly the right place!
I’ve summarised many tips for you, ranging from exhibitions & museums to idyllic nature spots and restaurant recommendations. To check these out, make sure to click HERE.
Interested in more travel tips, inspiration and advice across Europe? Don’t forget to check out my other social media pages to not miss out on the best tips: