Summer festival in the Botanical Garden: A celebration of science and music!

Summer festival in the Botanical Garden: A celebration of science and music!

The Philipps University of Marburg celebrated its traditional summer festival on July 29, 2025 in the picturesque botanical garden on the Lahnberge. The festival, which is established as the end-of-semester event, was estimated to have attracted between two and three thousand visitors, including both university members and citizens of the region. Alexander Ruppel, technical director of the Botanical Garden, gave insights into the course of the event and the variety of activities on offer.

Visitors had the opportunity to get to know various university institutions and groups at 36 stands. The program not only offered insights into science, but also an exciting music program, information stands and numerous hands-on activities. The greenhouses invited visitors to stroll through their flora. The University Sports Center provided exercise opportunities with activities such as Frisbee golf, badminton, slackline and table tennis.

Cultural highlights and musical performances

A special highlight of the event was the main stage, where a variety of musical performances took place. The art groups brought a wide variety of genres to the stage. The student pop choir presented modern pop, film and musical pieces, while the student big band impressed with a mix of rock, jazz and pop. The band Jurubeba offered Brazilian rhythms and the “Boptown Cats” created a good atmosphere with rockabilly and rock 'n' roll.

Rathmann's indie-pop set and DJ Perla Nera's hypnotic sounds rounded off the musical offering. The Buskers Deluxe duo created a relaxed atmosphere, entertaining guests at the entrance with jazz and easy listening with a mobile piano and saxophone.

Interactive offers for young and old

The interactive offering was wide-ranging. From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., those interested could take part in information stands from departments, student groups and institutes such as the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology. Researchers offered exchange opportunities on a box based on the idea of ​​the Speakers’ Corner.

There were numerous activities for the little visitors, including a teddy clinic for stuffed animals and a bouncy castle, which ensured fun and joy. In addition, the festival guests were able to enjoy culinary delights from local restaurateurs. Admission to the summer festival was free, which contributed significantly to the large number of visitors.

With the summer festival, the Philipps University of Marburg organized a successful event that not only celebrated the end of the semester, but also strengthened the connection between science, culture and society. Public transport was recommended for travel, with shuttle buses running every 45 minutes between the Botanical Garden and the Erwin Piscator House from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.