Hafengeburtstag (Port Birthday) is an annual festival held in Hamburg, Germany, celebrating the anniversary of the city's port. The event features a variety of maritime activities, including boat parades, ship tours, and sailing exhibitions. With live music, street performances, and food stalls, the festival creates a festive atmosphere. The Hafengeburtstag showcases Hamburg’s maritime heritage, highlighting its role as a major shipping hub. It is a lively celebration of the city’s connection to the sea, offering both cultural and entertainment experiences for all ages.

DATES & TIMES
• Festival dates: Friday–Sunday, 8–10 May 2026. Official dates · Stadt info.
• Opening service: Fri 8 May, 11:30–12:30 at St. Michaelis (Michel). Programme highlights.
• Entry Parade: Fri 8 May, 13:30–14:30 on the Elbe. Learn more.
• Schlepperballett (Tugboat Ballet): Sat 9 May (time tba) — harbour tugs “dance” on the Elbe. About it.
• Big Fireworks: Sat 9 May (evening; time tba). Fireworks note.
• Outbound Parade: Sun 10 May, 15:00–16:00. Parade info.

LOCATION
• Along the Elbe between Baumwall, the Landungsbrücken and the Fish Market (Fischmarkt); stages and the Harbour Mile line the waterfront. Programme & map.

TICKETS & ENTRY
• The waterfront festival is free to attend. Visitor info.
• Paid options: Book harbour cruises or velodrome/rooftop vantage experiences via authorised partners for parades/fireworks. Official event page.

GOOD TO KNOW
• Crowds & closures: Expect very large crowds, road closures and busy S‑/U‑Bahn stations near St. Pauli/ Landungsbrücken—arrive early and follow steward advice. Plan your visit.
• What to see: Tall‑ship entry/outbound parades, the Schlepperballett, and evening fireworks are the headline moments. Highlights.

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