Activities in the Black Forest in autumn 2026: What awaits us?

As summer, with all its activities, fades and autumn sets in, the Black Forest becomes truly beautiful once again. Long hikes through the forest are a real treat, especially during the changing leaves. But 2026 will also be a year of anniversaries, and many events will take place after the summer.

The Kurpark Meeting in the Kurhaus Baden-Baden

The period from August 29th to 31st technically falls within late summer, yet this Black Forest event in Baden-Baden is still worth mentioning. Every year, impressive tents are erected in front of the Kurhaus, and tables and parasols transform the Kurpark into a culinary promenade.

Music will be played in the concert pavilion, and there are numerous dining options around the square, inviting you to feast. Admission to the three days of the event is free, but guests will, of course, have to pay for the food.

For those who haven't had enough action late into the evening, the casino , located directly in the Baden-Baden Kurhaus , offers endless fun . Nestled at the foot of the Black Forest, this establishment is renowned far beyond the borders of Germany.

Excursion with the Merkurbahn in Baden-Baden

Although the Merkur funicular railway is open year-round, the ride is particularly beautiful at this time of year. The Merkur is Germany's highest funicular railway and takes visitors directly to the summit of the Merkur mountain. One of its unique features is that guests can choose their own departure time. At the push of a button, the railway sets off and glides silently up the mountain.

Once you reach the summit, there's plenty to see. If the weather's good, you can have a picnic on the lawn, and there's a playground for the little ones. There's also a barbecue area on site, which is very well used.

Those looking for a more comfortable stay can stop by the Merkurstüble restaurant at the summit. It offers typical Black Forest cuisine, as well as a delicious slice of cake.

Things won't get boring at the summit, as this is where the paragliders take off. It's great fun to watch the brave athletes as they impressively lift themselves into the air and take off.

The surrounding area also offers numerous hiking and walking trails. A wildlife enclosure is of interest to visitors of all ages, and those who wish can cool their feet in the Kneipp facility. The valley station can be reached on foot or by bus. Two lines (204 and 205) stop directly at the site.

A little tip: Even children will enjoy this experience. The Black Forest has many children's hiking trails , but a ride on the Merkur Mountain Railway is always a very special highlight.

Autumn visit to Europa-Park

For all Halloween fans, the period between September 29th and November 2nd is perfect for a visit to Europa-Park . Those who fancy an overnight stay should consider booking a room in the hayloft. The hotel is as popular as it is unique. It offers typical country-style rooms, and the adjacent inn provides a wide range of Black Forest culinary delights.

At Europa-Park itself, things are getting spooky and autumnal. The decorations change starting in late September. Hay bales, pumpkins, cornfields, and apples create the typical Halloween-autumn atmosphere. Goblins and vampires have also found their home in Germany's most famous theme park. The park is open daily until 18 p.m., making it worth a visit even in rainy weather.

The Schlosslichtspiele in Karlsruhe

The Karlsruhe Palace Light Festival takes place from August 14th to September 14th. It's one of the most spectacular events in Karlsruhe, a must-see for any Black Forest enthusiast. Admission is free, and this year's theme is " The Shining Lights of Science ." In 2025, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) celebrated its 200th anniversary, and consequently, everything is focused on technology.

Another (small) anniversary is taking place this year: the castle light show is already ten years old. When the castle is illuminated by the impressive reflections, magical photos are created.

The light shows, together with the visitors, create an exciting production, and the artists present their choreographies in an impressively new way every year. If you're in the area, you shouldn't miss this visit.

The international equestrian tournament in the castle park

From September 18th to 20th, the International Horse Show will take place in the Donaueschingen Palace Park. It is one of the most important and traditional horse shows in all of Europe. Spectators can look forward to show jumping, carriage driving, dressage, and many other disciplines. Strolling through the princely palace park brings back memories of noble times. Prince Joachim zu Fürstenberg is honored and respected, as the horse show is his memorial event.

Guests from all over Europe flock to the Black Forest for this event, and hotels are often fully booked weeks in advance. It's an event that even non-riders can't miss. The impressive ambiance of the castle will delight even those who don't normally have much interest in equestrian sports. Culinary delights are provided, with numerous food trucks and stalls, and exquisite wines to sample.

Culinary tour in the Black Forest

Those who enjoy culinary delights will find a culinary tour in the Black Forest Highlands perfect. The tour begins at Lake Titisee , whose shores serve as the route to the destination. The trail leads through the Bärental valley to the Windgfällweiher lake.

Along the way, hikers will enjoy three stops with culinary delights. The day begins with a hearty breakfast at Lake Titisee. Refreshed, they then set off on foot.

Even in autumn, the lakeshore remains a beautiful hiking location, even though swimming is no longer possible. The route to Bärental is uphill, so a refreshment stop at the market barn after reaching the first stage is just what you need. Tour participants are treated to a traditional Black Forest dish made with regional ingredients. The tour operator DERTOUR offers vegetarian alternatives for those who don't want to eat meat.

Since this is an individually bookable tour, you can choose the date. The minimum number of participants is one, so this tour is also possible on your own. However, up to 20 people can join for a fun outing with friends through the Black Forest.