Expensive extravaganza in the northern region predicted to attract an extensive crowd of three million people
Prepare for a packed week of music, sailing, and festivities as Kiel, Germany's state capital, gears up for the 2023 Kieler Woche!
Kiel's mayor, Ulf Kämpfer (SPD), can't wait for this bustling extravaganza, his last as mayor before the November elections. He views the Kieler Woche as a celebration of unity, openness, and understanding – values that have been further nurtured and preserved in recent years.
The official opening will take place on Saturday evening, with Federal Council President Anke Rehlinger in attendance. Music lovers can get ready for an extensive program, with most of the approximately 400 concerts on 20 stages available for free. Notable acts include Die Prinzen, Aura Dione, Michael Schulte, Pohlmann, Alvaro Soler, and DJ Alle Farben.
A Sailing Spectacle Awaits
The Kieler Woche remains a premier sailing event, attracting around 4,000 athletes from more than 60 nations. In a first, competitions will take place on 14 regatta courses on only ten parallel racing areas. New this year is the second location in Stein (Circle Plön) on the other side of the fjord. Over 50 nations in 22 boat classes are expected to participate.
Enhanced Security Measures
With three million guests expected throughout the week, security will be a prime focus. Visitors may notice an increased police presence, as well as an intensified security setup. Mobile and fixed barriers, bollards, and barriers at critical points have been established to prevent unauthorized or accidental access by vehicles.
Online Overview of Event Areas
For easy navigation, visitors can access an online overview showing the current status of different areas at the Kieler Woche. The color-coded system ranges from green (open) to orange (almost filled) to red (closed).
Naval Ships and Windjammer Parade
The Navy is expected to bring approximately two dozen ships from twelve countries, with nearly 1,500 soldiers on board. The traditional Windjammer Sailing Parade will be led by the sail training ship "Gorch Fock," set to return to Kiel on June 26 before leading the parade on June 28. Visitors can also explore naval ships on June 26 and 27.
The Kieler Woche concludes on June 29 with a breathtaking fireworks display featuring drones over the fjord. Get ready to immerse yourself in an incredible fusion of music, culture, and maritime excellence during the 2023 Kieler Woche!
Sports enthusiasts can anticipate an impressive array of sailing competitions during the Kieler Woche, attracting over 4,000 athletes from more than 60 nations. Entertainment is plentiful, with notable musical acts such as Die Prinzen, Aura Dione, and DJ Alle Farben set to perform, making the 2023 Kieler Woche a stellar combination of sports and entertainment.
