The city of Bremerhaven, Germany once again hosts SAiL Bremerhaven in which it becomes the “Capitol of Tall Ships.”
That’s because SAiL Bremerhaven has more than 250 tall ships from around the world in a festival that only happens about once every five years. The dates are Aug. 13-17 and here’s a rundown of what it is, the events, things to do and what to know.
Where is Bremerhaven, Germany?
Bremerhaven is located in northern Germany. The River Geeste flows through the city into the Weser estuary and the city is one of the busiest ports in the country. Historically, it is one of the most important harbors for emigration (people leaving their country as opposed to immigration, which is entering a country to live there) in Europe and it very proudly chronicles this migration at its German Emigration Center.
What Is SAiL Bremerhaven?
SAiL Bremerhaven is a tall ships festival in which classic multi-masted sailing ships of the past come to the city for a multi-day event. This year, more than 250 will enter the harbor for tours and even sailing excursions. On land, thousands of people pack the waterfront for the live music, a Buccanner’s Village, a Street Food Festival and near-continuous entertainment with the exclamation point to all this being a spectacular fireworks show.
It is to Bremerhaven what Oktoberfest is to Munich and New Year’s Eve is to Berlin. Tho, obviously, it’s not quite as big or popular worldwide as those events.
Events For SAiL Bremerhaven
One of the most popular things to do at SAiL Bremerhaven is to sit on the grass by the river and watch the ships, the people and the fireworks. People pack the shoreline just to be there and soak up the atmosphere. In the middle of it all is a ferris wheel, which is a popular thing to do during the event.
And, there are several events that are a part of SAiL Bremerhaven. There are live concerts with music that includes funk, soul and rock. Buccaneer Village has more music and even singing pirates. There’s food from around the world at the Street Food Festival.
And, of course, you can board the tall ships for tours or even to go sailing. A full list of the activities is available here.
Overall, SAiL Bremerhaven is a lively, fun and free event that provides an up-close look of the majestic tall ships that once covered the world’s oceans. Except you don’t have to put up with any of the hard life and times of the sailors and the only pirates you have to worry about are singing.
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