Culture Calendar: November 2024
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE
Berliner Märchentage. Photo: MÄRCHENLAND
November is here, and it’s packed with fun! Whether you’re into fairy tales, gourmet food or film premieres, there’s something to get you excited as the days get shorter. From magical Christmas markets to book fairs, these events are sure to keep your spirits bright all month long.
GENEVA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (1 – 10 NOVEMBER)
Get ready for international premieres, insightful master classes and endless networking opportunities at the iconic Geneva International Film Festival (GIFF), which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Explore the worlds of cinema, television and digital art – it’s an absolute must for any film lover.
BERLINER MÄRCHENTAGE, BERLIN (7 – 24 NOVEMBER)
Step into the realm of magic during the 35th instalment of the Berlin Fairy Tale Days. This cherished event breathes life into beloved childhood stories, promising enchantment for both young and old. This year’s theme is ‘The World Tree – The Cosmic Order – From Fairy Tales to Fantasy‘.
Voice Mania. Photo: Mihaela Raykova / Voice Mania Archiv
INTERNATIONAL A CAPPELLA FESTIVAL VOICE MANIA, VIENNA (8 NOVEMBER – 8 DECEMBER)
For the 26th time, it’s not just about singing, rocking, jazzing, grooving, and making sounds, but also shouting, joking around, laughing, tapping – and then back to singing again. Vocal artistry at its finest awaits the guests of Voice Mania in the heart of Vienna.
www.voicemania.at/das-festival
Plaza Culinaria.Photo: Achim Kaeflein
PLAZA CULINARIA, FREIBURG (8 – 10 NOVEMBER)
Plaza Culinaria, taking place at Messe Freiburg, is one of southern Germany’s premier culinary events. Attracting around 35,000 visitors annually, this gourmet fair offers an exciting blend of fine food, drinks and culinary experiences from regional and international exhibitors. Highlights include live cooking demonstrations, workshops and a wide variety of food-related products to explore.
Plaza Culinaria.Photo: Achim Kaeflein
CARNIVAL SEASON KICK-OFF, COLOGNE (11 NOVEMBER)
On 11/11, Cologne erupts with the start of its famous carnival season. Thousands in colourful costumes fill the streets, creating a lively, vibrant atmosphere. The entire city transforms into a carnival ‘madhouse’, with music, joy and excitement all around. It’s the perfect chance to experience German carnival traditions early and catch performances from top stars in the scene.
Cologne Carnival. Photo: Mika Baumeister on Unsplash
Buch Wien book fair. Photo: Nicola Montfort
BUCH WIEN, VIENNA (20 – 24 NOVEMBER)
This vibrant literary event features over 500 exhibitors and a wide array of programs, including readings, author discussions, workshops and book signings. The fair draws book enthusiasts and professionals from around the world, celebrating literature in all its forms – from novels and non-fiction to children’s books and graphic novels. As a cornerstone of Austria’s literary scene, Buch Wien is a must-attend for anyone passionate about books and culture.
Buch Wien book fair.Photo: Nicola Montfort
VINIFERA, BIEL (20 – 25 NOVEMBER)
Vinifera is a premier event for wine enthusiasts, offering a chance to explore a vast selection of wines from over 100 exhibitors. With tastings, a vibrant atmosphere and diverse selections, Vinifera is the perfect spot for wine lovers to discover new flavours. Don’t miss the exclusive Bielersee Wine Event on 25 November, featuring local wines from the Lake Biel region.
City of Stars St Gallen. Photo: Thomas Egger
CITY OF STARS, ST. GALLEN (28 NOVEMBER – 06 JANUARY)
Start the festive season in style with a visit to St. Gallen, Switzerland’s enchanting ‘City of Stars’, where the historic old town will be illuminated by 700 glowing stars, casting a magical light over its charming Christmas market. The market features over 50 wooden stalls offering handcrafted gifts, festive decorations and local Swiss delicacies. With a backdrop of UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Abbey of St. Gallen and its towering Christmas tree adorned with 18,000 lights, it’s the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit.
City of Stars St Gallen. Photo: Thomas Egge
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