Wine Festivals in the Saale-Unstrut Wine Region – Celebrate Wine, Culture & Tradition

The wine festivals of the Saale-Unstrut Wine Region are among the most memorable experiences in Saxony-Anhalt’s wine country. Between historic vineyards, charming wine villages, and traditional wineries, visitors celebrate the unique culture of Saale-Unstrut wine together with winemakers and locals.
Throughout the year, Freyburg (Unstrut), Naumburg, and the surrounding wine villages host wine festivals, vineyard walks, and special events. These occasions offer the perfect opportunity to taste regional wines, meet local winemakers, and experience the authentic atmosphere of one of Germany’s smallest and northernmost quality wine regions.
A particular highlight is the Freyburg Winegrowers’ Festival, one of the most famous wine festivals in the region. Events such as the Open Wine Cellars and Vineyards Days also provide a wonderful opportunity to visit wineries, taste wines, and discover the vineyards from a unique perspective.
Our holiday apartment at The Old Vicarage in Rehehausen is the perfect starting point for a wine weekend in Saale-Unstrut. After an exciting day among vineyards and festival grounds, return to the peaceful atmosphere and comfort of our historic house.
Celebrating Wine – A Tradition with Heart
In the Saale-Unstrut region, wine is much more than a beverage. It is part of the local culture, history, and way of life.
Throughout the year, wine festivals, winery events, and vineyard walks invite visitors to discover the people, landscapes, and outstanding wines of the region.
Whether you enjoy an intimate wine tasting at a small family winery or a large wine festival with music and entertainment, every event has its own character and creates unforgettable holiday memories.
Wine Festivals Throughout the Year
Spring
Naumburg Wine Week
Location: Naumburg
Time: End of February
The Naumburg Wine Week traditionally marks the beginning of the new wine year. Winemakers present the latest vintage, visitors can taste young wines, and various events provide insights into regional winemaking traditions.
The festival is smaller and more relaxed than the major summer events, making it especially attractive for wine enthusiasts.
Our tip:
Combine your visit with a walk through the historic old town and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Naumburg Cathedral.
Early Summer

Saale Wine Mile (Saale-Weinmeile)
Location: Between Bad Kösen and Roßbach
Time: Whitsun weekend
The Saale Wine Mile is one of the most popular wine events in the entire region and attracts visitors every year.
Over approximately six kilometres between Bad Kösen and Roßbach, wineries open their courtyards and vineyards. Along the route, guests can enjoy wine stands, regional specialities, live music, and beautiful views across the vineyards.
Many wineries only open their doors to visitors during this weekend, making it a unique opportunity to discover the diversity of Saale-Unstrut wines.
Highlights
- More than 40 wine and culinary stands
- Live music along the route
- Wine directly from local winemakers
- Spectacular vineyard views
Distance from The Old Vicarage: approx. 20 minutes by car
Summer
Winery and Courtyard Festivals
Location: Various wineries throughout the region
Time: June and July
During the summer months, many wineries organise their own courtyard festivals. Visitors can enjoy:
- Wine tastings
- Cellar tours
- Regional cuisine
- Live music
- Personal conversations with winemakers
These smaller events are ideal for guests who want to experience wine culture in a more intimate and authentic setting.
Open Wine Cellars and Vineyards Days
Location: Throughout the Saale-Unstrut Wine Region
Time: First weekend in August
A special highlight for wine lovers: numerous wineries open their cellars, production areas, and vineyards to visitors.
Winemakers share stories about their work, explain the wine production process, and offer exclusive tastings and guided tours.
Experiences include
- Wine tastings
- Vineyard tours
- Cellar visits
- Meeting local winemakers
- Regional culinary specialities
Naumburg Wine Festival
Location: Naumburg Market Square
Time: End of August
The Naumburg Wine Festival combines regional wines with music, local cuisine, and the beautiful historic setting of the city centre.
Numerous winemakers present their wines, while restaurants and regional producers offer specialities from Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia.
Autumn
Freyburg Winegrowers’ Festival
Location: Freyburg (Unstrut)
Time: Second weekend in September
The Freyburg Winegrowers’ Festival is the largest wine festival in the Saale-Unstrut region and one of Germany’s most traditional wine celebrations.
For several days, the historic town centre transforms into a lively festival area. Highlights include:
- The traditional festival parade
- The crowning of the regional wine queen
- Music on several stages
- A spectacular fireworks display
Throughout the weekend, winemakers present their finest wines and invite visitors to taste the variety of the region.
The festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year and is considered one of the highlights of the regional event calendar.
Our tip:
If you would like to visit the Freyburg Winegrowers’ Festival, we recommend booking your accommodation several months in advance.
Year-Round Wine Experiences
Wine Tastings at Local Wineries
Even outside the major festivals, visiting the wineries of Saale-Unstrut is highly recommended.
Many wineries offer throughout the year:
- Wine tastings
- Cellar tours
- Vineyard walks
- Regional specialities
- Picnics among the vineyards
A wine experience in Saale-Unstrut is the perfect combination of landscape, tradition, hospitality, and enjoyment – and a wonderful addition to your stay at The Old Vicarage in Rehehausen.
