A port’s birthday in Hamburg

Every year in early May, over a million visitors travel to the Hanseatic city for its biggest party. This year’s event will be held from 8 to 10 May. The ‘Hafenmeile’ that runs from Hafencity to the open-air Övelgönne museum port stretches for 4 kilometres, and bustles with over 300 ships during the festivities. The entrance and sailing parade, the tugboat ballet and the stunning fireworks on the Saturday night are all particular highlights. But how did the port birthday celebrations come about?

The port celebrations in Hamburg go way back. On 7 May 1189, Emperor Frederick Barbarossa issued a charter to the people of Hamburg. The charter granted ships exemption from customs duties when sailing from the North Sea to the port of Hamburg. This was a seminal moment in Hamburg’s development, for maritime trade was crucial to the economic success of the beautiful Hanseatic city.

Hamburg locals have been celebrating the port’s birthday since 1977. For one weekend, the entire world comes to Hamburg. This year Hamburg will once again be welcoming ships from various fleets. The AIDA, Costa and MSC shipping companies will be present. Smaller cruise ships will also have the honour of attending.

As a visitor you can expect a programme packed full of activities. The official opening will take place on the Rickmer Rickmers museum ship, as it does every year. It will coincide with the grand port-entrance parade featuring 300 vessels from all areas of shipping, from historic tall ships and traditional sailboats, impressive cruise liners, and motorised and sailing yachts to utility vessels used by the fire brigade, fishery protection authorities, water police, federal police, technical emergency service, the German Maritime Search and Rescue Service (DGzRS) and customs authorities.

Whether you choose to accompany the parade for part of the way aboard one of the passenger ships, or watch it unfold from the portside promenade, the port birthday celebrations are an impressive sight from every angle.