(c) Landeshauptstadt Mainz. Culture in Mainz – Art, Music, Theatre, Film and Literature
October is traditionally all about books: we’re looking forward to lots of exciting readings and, of course, especially to the 25th edition of the Mainz Book Fair at the Academy of Sciences and Literature at the end of the month. Apart from that, the programme for the whole of October features fantastic concerts, birthday celebrations, fascinating talks, openings, and films and exhibitions well worth seeing. So get out and about – the weather’s on our side too – and come home with lots of new experiences and wonderful memories.
10 October 2026
Lyrics and more: An evening of reading and music on the theme of ‘Courage’
We all need COURAGE. The courage to embrace change, to overcome fears, to stand up for our convictions, to live authentically. Perhaps we are facing an important professional or personal decision. Without courage, many things remain untried – a missed opportunity. Heike, an author and blogger, will talk about what courage means to her and read from her books. And Markus, a singer-songwriter, will sing songs for us – both his own and those by other artists – that have real depth. He will once again be supported by Bettina, whose warm voice, in duet with Markus, is sure to give us goosebumps.
11 October 2026
PULSION – symphonic groove at the Altes Postlager
On 11 October at 7.00 pm, the Rhineland-Palatinate State Youth Wind Orchestra (LJBO) will present its first major symphonic wind orchestra concert with a groove at the Altes Postlager in Mainz. Under the baton of the renowned conductor Tobias Haussig, the orchestra – comprising around 70 musicians – combines classical works with jazz and electronic influences. The solo parts will be performed by three young, highly talented musicians from Rhineland-Palatinate: Juliana Saib (keyboard), Marko Mebus (trumpet) and Daniel Buch (saxophone).
12 October 2026
Film & Discussion: “We All Bleed Red”
Martin Schoeller has photographed US presidents, Hollywood stars and sporting icons. In his personal series, however, he portrays people away from the spotlight: homeless people, ex-prisoners, drag queens and Native Americans. Using a mobile set-up, he creates intimate spaces in which people talk about the realities of their lives. In doing so, Schoeller becomes an unbiased listener and, for the duration of the portrait, a confidant. His stepsister, Josephine Links, accompanies him on these projects and captures the acclaimed photographer at work. The film will be followed by a discussion with Josephine Links.
22 October 2026
Gutenberg Meeting Place: New release! Dagmar Petrick: Peter and the Power of Letters
Strasbourg, 1437: Eleven-year-old Peter has been earning a living by carving pilgrims’ souvenirs ever since he fled with his sister from their violent father. Then he meets Johannes Gutenberg, who, of all people, needs his help. Told in an exciting and child-friendly way, the story gives young readers an insight into life in the 15th century and the beginnings of printing. Location Gutenberg Museum Aula
UHRZEIT: 18:00 Uhr
22 to 25 October
Autumn Festival at Schillerplatz
What else do you need for an autumnal celebration at Schillerplatz apart from Federweißer, onion tart and wine? You, of course! Do come along and welcome the third season against an autumnal backdrop and in a convivial atmosphere.
24 and 25 October 2026
25th Anniversary of the Mainz Book Fair
The Mainz Book Fair has traditionally provided a platform for all aspects of the world of books over the course of a weekend: Numerous publishers, bookshops both large and small, museums, foundations, associations, artists, academic institutions, as well as authors and self-publishers from Mainz and the surrounding area will be presenting themselves, their work and their products, and inviting visitors to engage in lively discussion within the light-filled premises of the Mainz Academy of Sciences and Literature.
Flea & Antiques market on the banks of the river Rhine in Mainz
Saturday, October 10, 2026, 07:00 – 15:00
Rarities and curiosities
Antiques, knick-knacks, useful items, and perhaps the odd long-sought-after collector’s item can be found at the stalls along the banks of the Rhine in Mainz between Kaisertor and Theodor-Heuss-Brücke, which may only be run by private individuals. This is precisely what gives Mainz’s flea market its special charm. At the children’s flea market, the youngest visitors can sell whatever their hearts desire without paying a stall fee.
Dates for 2026:
Saturday September 5 & 19, October 10 & 24, November 7.
Stand booking via online ticket system and advance sales outlets
Stands are allocated via the online ticket system of ztix GmbH. The desired stand and parking space can be selected from the plan provided and purchased with a binding commitment. The purchase will be confirmed by email and the ticket can be easily printed at home or presented on a mobile device on the day of the event.
Participants without internet access can purchase their tickets at affiliated advance sales outlets, for example at the Mainz Store/Tourist Info (Markt) or at Media Markt (Haifa-Allee).
WeinMarkt
Every last weekend in August and every first weekend in September, the Mainz City Park transforms into a sea of wine stalls and sideshows.
The Mainz wine market attracts numerous visitors from home and abroad and invites visitors to stroll, taste and experience the wine.
Nearly 50 wine stands from Rheinhessen present their products, the wine village of the Great Wine Capital Community offers wines from abroad and an entertainment program is also started for the little ones.
The champagne festival and the artist market take place in the romantic rose garden as every year.
Experience the Mainz Farmer’s Market!
Every week on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 7 am to 2 pm you can experience one of the most beautiful markets in Germany at the St. Martin’s Cathedral, right in the city center of Mainz. Enjoy shopping at numerous booths and market stalls which offer a wide variety of fresh and regional products. Whether fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese or honey – the Mainz market offers something for everyone’s taste. An especially unique highlight is the “Marktfrühstück” (farmer´s market breakfast): you can savor the taste and atmosphere of a German-style sausage breakfast at the market. In addition the winegrowers of Mainz offer their finest wine sorts. The Mainz Farmer’s Market is looking forward to your visit!