Pennsylvania’s largest Maifest celebration returns to South Street this weekend with festivities for the entire family. Celebrate the season of spring German style with German-centric food, music, beer, and entertainment.
The 11th Annual Maifest
Presented by Brauhaus Schmitz, the 11th annual Maifest spring celebration returns to South Street. The party begins Saturday May 4th, 2024 from 11:00am to 8:00pm. This all-day, all-ages festival and block party is a grand celebration of festivities, drawing upwards of 12,000 people. It features authentic German culture, live music, delicious food, and of course, plenty of beer!
“Brauhaus Schmitz is proud to bring this tradition to the heart of Philadelphia’s South Street district for an unforgettable day of fun and merriment,” said Brauhaus Schmitz owner Doug Hager in an official press release. “Our block party has become a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike, and we can’t wait to celebrate with South Street and our community. Come raise a liter with us under the giant Maypole!”
What To Expect
Say Guten Tag to spring in Philadelphia with the return of Maifest on South Street. Maifest, or May Day, is a beloved German tradition celebrating the arrival of spring. The one-day block-buster festival returns every first Saturday of May. Indeed, it draws over 10,000 people that fill South Street and inside Brauhaus Schmitz.
Festivities for the day will include:
- Live Music – From 1:30pm to 6:00pm, enjoy the sounds of traditional German oompah songs as well as party hits performed by Brauhaus regulars “Die Heimatklange Band.”
- Entertainment – Be sure to catch the United German Hungarian Dance group as they perform traditional folk dances around Philadelphia’s tallest Maypole.
- Liter Lift Competition – At 1:00pm, come cheer on 20 of Philadelphia’s strongest men and women as they compete to see who can hold a Liter of beer up the longest. In fact, the winner will secure a spot in the national championship in NYC.
- Keg Tapping – Join the Brahaus family and raise a stein for the annual key tapping at 1:30pm.
- Delicious Food – Indulge in mouthwatering German fare including Pig Roast, bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel, Sauerkraut, Potato Salad and more!
- German Bier – Toast to the season with an extensive selection of 10 different German beers, including lagers, wheat beers, and crisp pilsners and Cider. Plus don’t forget to bring your squad to share a Schnapsski.
- Family-Friendly Activities – Bring the whole family for games, face painting, flower crown, dancing and other activities suitable for all ages.
Where: 700 Block of South Street, Outside and Inside Brauhaus