The combination of the popular, world-renowned sailing regatta and northern Europe's largest summer festival is what makes Kiel Week so unique. While the centre of Schleswig-Holstein's state capital also offers plenty of water activities along the inner fjord, families with a particular affinity for sailing celebrate Kiel's fifth season in the Olympic harbour of Schilksee with a no less attractive land-based programme.
The windjammer parade
The key question is which are the top highlights in the sailing and event sector. The answer is easy for most people: the Windjammer Parade! When else will sightseers and sailors alike get their money's worth on the second Saturday (29 June) when 70 tall ships and traditional sailing ships as well as 16 motor and steam ships form up in front of the Kiellinie in the morning and, surrounded by many other boats, move leisurely towards the outer fjord from 11 am!
The parade will once again be led by Kiel's floating landmark, the training sailing ship "Gorch Fock". The best places to watch and marvel on the western shore are at the Kiellinie, Holtenau lighthouse, Falckensteiner Strand, Friedrichsort lighthouse and the former MFG5 site in Holtenau. On the eastern shore, the fjord hiking trail offers ideal views, especially in Mönkeberg, Kitzeberg and Möltenort.
The boat will sail ashore to an imaginary line between light buoys 5 and 6, approximately between Schilksee and Stein, until the parade gradually disperses after 1 pm.
The fireworks
In addition to the many culinary delicacies from all over the world, the sailing fireworks at half-time on Wednesday (26 June) are a visual highlight. It will be set off from a pontoon in front of the Schilksee pier at 11 pm after dark and will enchant the sky and its audience. After the last rocket, the speakers will be turned up again on the large stage of the Audi Sailing Arena. In keeping with the theme, DJ On.Feyr will heat up the dance crowd until midnight.
Live music
Other highlights in the Schilksee music programme include Raliza & The Sunlights and DJ Freesi on Monday from 7.30 pm, Alex and the Waves on Tuesday and the cult band in the inimitable cow outfit, United Four, and DJ Ralf Burnett on Thursday. On Wednesday at 7 pm, not only surf freaks will be able to enjoy the two-hour cinema film "Born to Windsurf - Björn Dunkerbeck" on the big screen.
The conclusion
On Sunday at 11 pm, the week will end on the inner fjord with a light spectacle. Partner Aida Cruises will illuminate the "Abella" and promises a modern drone and laser show with musical accompaniment. We wish you the best of entertainment!
