SOMMER FESTIVAL 21 JUNE 2026

On Sunday 21 June 2026, just in time for the start of summer, the Botanic Garden of Ruhr University Bochum invites you to its summer festival from 11 am to 5 pm. This year there is double cause for celebration: the garden is also marking its 55th anniversary. Visitors can look forward to a varied programme for families, gardening enthusiasts and the curious.

Discover nature, marvel and learn
The day offers a variety of free guided tours through the garden’s impressive diversity: from the Desert House to the Medicinal Garden and the Chinese Garden, right through to the collections that are not usually open to the public. The garden’s machinery park will also be on display. Anyone wishing to graft a small apple tree or sow cacti can take part in the popular workshops and take the plants home with them afterwards.

Music, plant market and relaxation
The jazzy brass band Unibrass will provide musical accompaniment and a great atmosphere from 3 pm. The programme is complemented by a large plant market, a wild herb station with tastings and recipes, a hands-on stand by NABU and much more. For guests keen on exercise, there are taster sessions in Pilates amidst nature.

Water games with the fire brigade provide a chance to cool off
Younger guests can look forward to a colourful programme of activities featuring balloon animals, garden rallies, creative craft sessions in the dye garden and a ‘Water Worlds’ research station. 

The Querenburg Volunteer Fire Brigade is providing a special treat, keeping everyone cool and entertained with some lively water games.

Refreshments are well catered for, with chips, sausages, burgers, ice cream, as well as coffee and cake. BumbleBeer is taking part for the first time with its own beer cocktails. Entry to the summer festival is free. A small contribution towards costs is charged for some activities (e.g. the tree grafting workshop).