Festivities for the Zissel take place at Kassel's Auedamm
The much-anticipated Zissel Festival is set to return to Kassel from August 1 to 4, 2025. This grand folk and water festival promises a lively spirit, attracting an estimated 200,000 visitors.
The festivities will officially commence on Friday with the ceremonial raising of the herring flag, known as Hissen des Härings, and the crowning of the festival royals, Krönung der Hoheiten. The herring, a symbol of Zissel, will be hung at the roundabout during the opening ceremony.
Throughout the four days, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. Music, watersports, dragon boat races, stage programs, and a party atmosphere will fill the air, showcasing Kassel's vibrant spirit. Torch swimmers will even take to the Fulda on Saturday evening, adding an exciting twist to the celebrations.
On Sunday, the Grand Water Parade, Großer Wasserfestzug, will be a key highlight, starting at 4:00 pm. The procession will route through Prinzessgarten, Auedamm, and the Zisselmeile area in Kassel. The day will also feature a grand land festive parade, Landfestzug, showcasing decorated boats in a large water festival parade.
Live music will be a significant part of the entertainment, with the band Max Headroom performing on the Regattawiese stage from 4:45 pm to 6:45 pm on Monday. Additionally, fairground rides, booths, and a wine village will be set up at the Karlswiese and along the Auedamm, providing ample opportunities for fun and relaxation.
The Zissel Festival in Kassel is more than just a celebration; it's a significant cultural event in North Hesse. The extensive program, featuring traditional ceremonies, colorful parades on land and water, live music, and festive entertainment across multiple venues, reflects the region's rich history and vibrant culture.
The festival will conclude when the herring is taken down, marking the end of another successful Zissel Festival in Kassel. The finale will be a grand fireworks display on Monday, providing a fitting end to this four-day extravaganza. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the Zissel Festival in 2025!
In addition to the exciting water and land parades, the Zissel Festival in Kassel will offer a lifestyle experience with home-and-garden events at the Karlswiese and along the Auedamm, featuring fairground rides, booths, and a wine village. As the festival draws to a close, visitors can enjoy an outdoor-living spectacle with a grand fireworks display on Monday.
