For 55 years, Maifest has welcomed generations of locals and visitors to celebrate spring, community, and Leavenworth’s Bavarian heritage. From the Festzug down Front Street to the raising of the Maibaum, Maifest continues to honor tradition while evolving in thoughtful and exciting ways. Look at what we have planned this year!
A New, More Authentic Maibaum (Maipole)
In honor of the 55th anniversary, Leavenworth is unveiling a brand-new Maibaum (Maipole). The new Maibaum will be crafted from a Douglas Fir, with the bark removed and adorned with rings of greenery at the top, marking the arrival of spring and symbolizing prosperity and community. The beloved Maipole dance will once again be performed as part of the weekend’s festivities.
NEW: Maifest Beer Garden – Saturday, May 9
This year, Maifest will feature a Saturday Beer Garden at the Festhalle, offering a festive gathering space with great local craft beers and a lively Bavarian atmosphere. The beer garden will utilize the Festhalle loading dock and part of 10th Street as an outdoor extension (weather permitting), creating the perfect setting to raise a glass, enjoy live entertainment, and celebrate spring in the Bavarian Village.
NEW: Second Entertainment Stage at the Festhalle
In addition to performances at the Gazebo in Front Street Park, Maifest 2026 will introduce a second stage inside the Festhalle, bringing even more music and family-friendly fun throughout the weekend.
Returning Maifest Traditions and Highlights:
Maifest may have some new additions for 2026, but many of its beloved traditions are set to return as well. Among them:
- The Bavarian “Festzug” (Grand March) – Saturday at Noon Don’t miss this beloved Maifest tradition as musicians, dancers, dignitaries, and villagers parade through town in a joyful celebration of Bavarian heritage.
- Tirolean Dancers of Oregon & Traditional Maipole Dances Experience lively folk dancing, colorful ribbons weaving around the Maipole, and high-energy performances that honor centuries-old Alpine traditions.
- Horses, Wagons & Carriages Step back in time as beautifully adorned horses and traditional wagons roll through the village, adding Old World charm to the festivities.
- Bavarian Music & Alphorns Enjoy festive oompah bands and the deep, resonant sound of alphorns echoing against the mountain backdrop — a true Leavenworth experience.
- Bernese Mountain Dogs Meet these iconic Alpine animals up close — a family favorite that adds authenticity and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
- Townsfolk in Traditional Trachten See the village come alive with Dirndls, Lederhosen, and authentic Bavarian attire, creating a vibrant and immersive cultural celebration.
- Special Guest Manuela Horn International entertainer Manuela Horn brings her signature Bavarian flair with a lively children’s show Saturday afternoon and a spirited evening concert in the Festhalle — full of music, humor, and crowd-pleasing fun.
More Reasons to Visit (or return to) Leavenworth this May:
Maifest is just one of many notable events and celebrations taking place in Leavenworth this May. Among the other notable events scheduled include:
Cascade Celtic Festival – May 1-3
Long before Bavaria became distinctly “Bavarian,” Celtic tribes inhabited the region, shaping early culture, traditions, and even place names. Over centuries, Celtic and Germanic influences blended to form the rich heritage that defines Bavaria today. That shared history makes the Cascade Celtic Festival a natural and meaningful part of May in Leavenworth, another joyful expression of music, storytelling, and Old-World tradition brought to life in the mountains.
Rock Fest – May 2
Rock Fest launches Leavenworth’s Bavarian Spring with a tribute to the rugged alpine spirit shared by both Bavaria and the Cascades. From the world-renowned climbing routes of Germany’s Franconian Jura to the granite walls of Icicle Canyon, mountain culture is deeply woven into Bavarian heritage. This outdoor celebration honors that adventurous tradition with live music, fresh mountain air, and the energy of spring in our Bavarian village.
Mai Blumenlauf 5K – May 10
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a joyful spring fun run through the heart of downtown and along scenic Waterfront Park. Lace up and enjoy blooming flowers, fresh mountain air, and stunning alpine views as you make memories together in our beautiful Bavarian village.
Leavenworth Spring Bird Fest – May 14-17
Celebrate the return of migratory birds with guided walks, expert talks, and immersive experiences honoring the beauty and birdsong of the natural world.
Maifest Live Chainsaw Carving – May 16-17
Watch master carvers transform massive logs into works of art during live demonstrations, paired with music, artisan vendors, and festive Maifest cheer.
Leavenworth International Alphorn Festival – May 23-24
Experience the powerful, echoing sound of alphorns in concerts, workshops, and special performances as this iconic Alpine tradition fills the mountain air.
Art in the Park - All Weekends in May
Stroll Front Street Park as it transforms into an open-air art gallery, featuring local artists, handcrafted goods, and one-of-a-kind treasures each weekend.
