Get ready for a fun-filled weekend in Gelsenkirchen! This Saturday and Sunday, March 28th and 29th, 2026, check out the local Flower and Garden Market right in the city center. If you're willing to take a short trip to nearby Bochum, the Zeiss Planetarium has several space shows perfect for budding astronomers. We also found a delightful puppet show happening Sunday afternoon in Gelsenkirchen.
See our top picks
kinder.welten: Mealtime!
literaturhaus.dortmund
A totally free Sunday afternoon activity near Gelsenkirchen.
The Robber Hotzenplotz and the Moon Rocket
Zeiss Planetarium Bochum
An indoor planetarium show perfect for Saturday morning.
The Little Witch & the Sky-Blue Unicorn
Theater im Walzwerk
A dedicated puppet theater show locally on Sunday afternoon, ages 3+.
· March 28
3: Head downtown for the Flower and Garden Market happening all weekend. It’s a great chance to stroll around, see what’s new for spring gardening, and enjoy the city center atmosphere.This is the only major event confirmed right in the Gelsenkirchen city center this weekend.
DORTMUND FUNFAIR 'FREDOLINO' : The new funfair in Dortmund kicks off Saturday. If you want to check out the newest rides in the region, this is where you should go.This funfair is starting its run this Saturday, March 28th.
: This Easter Market, also called 'Xantener Frühling,' is running Saturday and Sunday. A nice trip if you like springtime markets.A specific regional Easter Market happening on both target dates.
· March 29
6: The market continues on Sunday and features a 'verkaufsoffener Sonntag,' meaning shops will be open! A perfect excuse for a relaxed Sunday outing.Specific confirmation of Sunday shopping alongside the market makes this a strong weekend draw.
ADVENTURE PLANETS : If Saturday didn't work, you can catch the 'Abenteuer Planeten' show Sunday afternoon in Bochum for more cosmic fun.Provides a second chance on Sunday to visit the Planetarium events.
: The Herne City Fair wraps up on Sunday. If your family loves rides and fairground food, this is your last chance this weekend!This is the final day of the fair in Herne, making it an important 'last chance' option.
: The long-running Palm Fair in nearby Recklinghausen ends today—great for a full Sunday of fun if you don't mind the drive.It is the final day of this major regional fair.
: Visit the Westphalian Easter Market at the Museumshof on Sunday for crafts and atmosphere.Another specific Easter Market happening on Sunday.
FREE : This event in nearby Dortmund is completely free! It's part of their 'Children's Worlds' series, focusing on the theme of 'Mealtime' on Sunday afternoon.It's a confirmed free event happening on Sunday near the city.
Also On· anytime this weekend
5: Catch this children’s theater event near Gelsenkirchen at the planetarium. It's a fun story presented in a cool setting.This is a solid indoor event option happening Saturday morning just outside the city.
: Explore the universe with this family-friendly show at the Bochum Planetarium on Saturday afternoon.Offers a dedicated afternoon science option for slightly older kids this Saturday.
: An early Sunday show at the Planetarium that sounds perfect for younger explorers.The 11 AM slot is often better for younger kids than later shows.
: If you are looking for a short cultural stop, check out this exhibition at the Kunstkiosk on Saturday afternoon.A local cultural option happening Saturday in Gelsenkirchen itself.
: Your older kids or teens might enjoy this dedicated watercolor course running Saturday morning at the local art school.A focused activity specifically targeting older children/teens interested in art.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Gelsenkirchen this weekend?
The only confirmed free event for the weekend is 'kinder.welten: Mahlzeit!' in nearby Dortmund on Sunday afternoon. For local options, check out the Flower and Garden Market in GE-City, though pricing is unknown.
Are there any major regional fairs running this weekend?
Yes, several major fairs end this Sunday (March 29th), including the Palmkirmes in Recklinghausen and the Citykirmes in Herne. The new Kirmespark 'freDOlino' also starts Saturday in Dortmund.
What is happening inside Gelsenkirchen city limits besides the market?
Locally, you can visit the 'Holz im Herzen - Licht im Kopf' exhibition Saturday afternoon or enroll older kids in the Watercolor Painting Course at the Kunstschule on Saturday morning.
