Baldeneysee Guide

On Sunday, March 22, 2026, Essen-Werden becomes a meeting place for everyone who is enthusiastic about sewing and DIY projects. The German-Dutch fabric market invites you to browse, marvel and shop from 10 am to 5 pm.

Start into spring: Garden house Dingerkus opens in Essen in 2026‑Werden

On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the historic Dingerkus House in Essen Werden will open its doors for the first time in 2026 for its traditional and annual spring awakening. Between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., visitors can discover the late Baroque garden house and its lovingly maintained grounds in the picturesque Essen districts Werden on the Ruhr River and Baldeneysee.

The building is considered one of the most charming gems of Werden: a place where architectural history, nature, and tranquility come together in a unique way. The Friends of the House will be on hand to provide insights into the building's history and its significance for the neighborhood. It's an ideal afternoon for culture enthusiasts, strollers, and anyone who wants to welcome spring in a historic setting.

The Dinkerkushaus is open every first Sunday of the month until October.

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen

International Canoe Spring Regatta 2026 at Baldeneysee

At the International Canoe Spring Regatta on the Baldeneysee in Essen's Ruhr Valley, young and old athletes will compete from May 8th to 10th, 2026. The competitions in the canoe and kayak classes will be held on nine lanes of the regatta course at the Baldeneysee. Depending on the distance, participants will start at the level of the Seaside Beach, Baldeney, Südtiroler Stuben, or Regattahaus.

The finish line for all competitions is at the regatta tower. Simultaneously, the NRW state champions will be determined in the open single sculls long-distance championship. A fantastic opportunity to experience canoe racing live at the Baldeneysee.

Photo above: Nikolay Vinokurov

Baldenopti Regatta on May 9th and 10th, 2026 – Sailing Club Essen-Heisingen invites you to the Baldeneysee

On the weekend of May 9th and 10th, the Baldeneysee in Essen-Heisingen will be transformed into a lively sailing area: The sailing club Essen-Heisingen (SKEH) is hosting the traditional "Baldenopti Regatta". Young sailors will compete against each other in the Optimist dinghy class, sailing their small boats across the Baldeneysee.

Around 30 young sailors are expected to participate, and they will compete in exciting races under what is expected to be favorable weather conditions. The club, founded in 1969, looks forward to welcoming many visitors.

Photo above: © Jochen Tack

54th International German Cup in Canoe Polo at Baldeneysee

The long-established International Germany Cup enters its 54th year at the Baldeneysee. From May 23rd to 25th, 2026, the best canoe polo athletes will meet at the picturesque Baldeneysee in Essen to showcase their skills. This top-class tournament promises thrilling competitions, impressive team performances, and exciting encounters on the water along the north shore of the Baldeneysee. A must-see for all canoe polo fans and a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience this sport live at an international level.

Photo above: Jochen Tack

Commodore Cup on May 30th and 31st, 2026 – Sailing regatta on the Baldeneysee

The Commodore Cup will be held on May 30th and 31st, 2026, by the sailing club Essen-Heisingen (SKEH) on the boat Baldeneysee. Originally conceived as a competition for the Kielzugvogel class, the regatta will also be open to Folkboats starting this year and will be run as a ranking regatta for this class. Besides the sport, fun will also be a priority.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

XXL Bundesliga Matchday 2026 in Canoe Polo on the Baldeneysee

The Baldeneysee will once again host matches for the German Canoe Polo Bundesliga. From June 6th to June 7th, 2026, all Canoe Polo Bundesliga teams are expected at the Baldeneysee. The first matchday of the Women's Bundesliga, the first matchday of the Men's Second Bundesliga, and the second matchday of the Men's First Bundesliga will all take place simultaneously on the north shore.

Between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Saturday) and 4 p.m. (Sunday), the matches will be played on a total of five pitches, each measuring 35 x 25 meters. The Düsseldorf district government has issued information for shipping on this occasion.

The match day will take place on section Km 30.2 to Km 30.8 of the Baldeneysee. The area will be closed to all vehicles except those participating in the event. The navigational markers in accordance with the Inland Waterways Regulations (BinSchStrO) apply. While the shipping channel will remain open, it will be rerouted 50 meters from the shore.

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen

Dingerkus Garden House: Open Sundays from June to October 2026

From June to October 2026, the Dingerkushaus invites visitors to its open house on the first Sunday of each month. Between 2 pm and 6 pm, guests can freely explore the baroque garden house and its idyllic garden in the Essen district of Werden, near the Ruhr River and Baldeneysee.

The Dingerkus House is a rare example of 18th-century bourgeois garden architecture – a tranquil retreat that has retained its original charm to this day. Open Sundays offer the opportunity to experience this architectural gem in peace, learn more about its history, and soak up the unique atmosphere of the place.

A regular event for anyone who appreciates culture, nature, and historical sites. Depending on the weather, the areas around Baldeneysee are perfect for relaxing after your visit. If the weather is good, a visit to Brehminsel or the pedal boat rental is also worthwhile.

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen

German Junior and Age Group Championships 2026 – Rowing on the Baldeneysee in Essen

From June 25th to June 28th, 2026, the German Junior and Age Group Championships in rowing will be held on the traditional regatta course on the Baldeneysee in Essen.

The championships are the most important national competition for young rowers. Spectators can look forward to exciting races, top-class sport, and a lively supporting program on the lakeshore.

A special highlight: The top athletes from the Essen rowing clubs ETUF, EWRC, KRG, RaB, and TVK will also be competing, transforming the local regatta course into a true stage for top-level sporting performances. Mark your calendars now and be there live when Germany's best junior rowers and the top athletes from Essen's clubs battle for the titles.

German Junior and Age Group Rowing Championships 2026 | SCHEDULE

Baldeneysee.Ruhr wishes all rowers the best of luck!

Photo above: Bianca Killmann

July 3rd to 5th, 2026 Dragon Boat Festival 2026 at Baldeneysee

The dragon boat festival at Baldeneysee takes place from July 3rd to 5th, 2026, and promises exciting competitions on the Essen regatta course. For three days, teams from all over North Rhine-Westphalia will compete in various categories, including the Unified Dragon Cup, the inclusive dragon boat race, and races for fun and recreational teams.

The inclusive dragon boat race shows how sport can bring together people with different abilities.

Dragon boat enthusiasts and those who want to become one can expect a weekend with imaginatively costumed teams, exciting races and a colorful supporting program on the first weekend of July 2026 at Baldeneyseee.

Friday, July 3, 2026 * Unified Dragon Cup | Inclusive dragon boat race

Saturday, July 4, 2026 * Dragon boat race for fun and recreational teams

Sunday, July 5, 2026 * Dragon boat race for fun and recreational teams

Drawing above: Bianca Killmann

Dingerkus Garden House: Open Sundays from June to October 2026

From June to October 2026, the Dingerkushaus invites visitors to its open house on the first Sunday of each month. Between 2 pm and 6 pm, guests can freely explore the baroque garden house and its idyllic garden in the Essen district of Werden, near the Ruhr River and Baldeneysee.

The Dingerkus House is a rare example of 18th-century bourgeois garden architecture – a tranquil retreat that has retained its original charm to this day. Open Sundays offer the opportunity to experience this architectural gem in peace, learn more about its history, and soak up the unique atmosphere of the place.

A regular event for anyone who appreciates culture, nature, and historical sites. Depending on the weather, the areas around Baldeneysee are perfect for relaxing after your visit. If the weather is good, a visit to Brehminsel or the pedal boat rental is also worthwhile.

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen

Optipussi Regatta on July 11th and 12th, 2026 – Etuf Sailing Club

The Optipussi Regatta is an annual sailing event held at Baldeneysee for young sailors in the Optimist B (advanced) and Optimist C (beginner) boat classes.

This year's regatta will take place on July 11th and 12th, 2026. The sailing section of the Essen Gymnastics and Fencing Club (ETUF) is organizing the regatta. The Optimist dinghy, also known as Opti or affectionately as a "soapbox," is the entry-level boat class for young sailors.

Many internationally successful sailors began their sailing careers in this sailboat.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

Dingerkus Garden House: Open Sundays from June to October 2026

From June to October 2026, the Dingerkushaus invites visitors to its open house on the first Sunday of each month. Between 2 pm and 6 pm, guests can freely explore the baroque garden house and its idyllic garden in the Essen district of Werden, near the Ruhr River and Baldeneysee.

The Dingerkus House is a rare example of 18th-century bourgeois garden architecture – a tranquil retreat that has retained its original charm to this day. Open Sundays offer the opportunity to experience this architectural gem in peace, learn more about its history, and soak up the unique atmosphere of the place.

A regular event for anyone who appreciates culture, nature, and historical sites. Depending on the weather, the areas around Baldeneysee are perfect for relaxing after your visit. If the weather is good, a visit to Brehminsel or the pedal boat rental is also worthwhile.

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen

Bertha Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Prize 2026 on the Baldeneysee

On August 29th and 30th, 2026, the ETUF sailing club invites you to the traditional regatta for the Bertha Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Prize on the Baldeneysee. The races will start at the Essen Gymnastics and Fencing Club (ETUF) and will be held in the J/22 class. Sailing crews from all over Germany will compete against each other, promising exciting regatta racing at a high level. The event is one of the sporting highlights of the season on the Baldeneysee and offers sailing enthusiasts a thrilling race.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

Opti Cup in the spotlight – Young sailing stars at the 68th Essen Sailing Week on the Baldeneysee

On September 5th and 6th, 2026, the Scheppen Sailing Club (SKS) will host the popular Opti Cup as part of the 68th Essen Sailing Week. Young sailors will compete in the Optimist class, impressively demonstrating the enthusiasm and talent of the next generation of sailors. The event offers not only exciting races on the water but also a diverse program of activities for spectators and families on the Harbenbergufer, the southern shore of the Baldeneysee. Baldeneysee.Ruhr has all the dates for the 68th Essen Sailing Week.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

The city championship with kangaroo start on the Baldeneysee

On September 5th and 6th, 2026, the Scheppen Sailing Club (SKS) will host the exciting city championship in the Yardstick class as part of the 68th Essen Sailing Week. A special highlight: the popular kangaroo start ensures fair competition, with slower boats starting with a time advantage – leading to fiercely contested battles for position right up to the finish. Sailors from the region will compete in thrilling races where tactical skill and teamwork will determine the winner. Baldeneysee.Ruhr has all the dates for the 68th Essen Sailing Week.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

Dingerkus Garden House: Open Sundays from June to October 2026

From June to October 2026, the Dingerkushaus invites visitors to its open house on the first Sunday of each month. Between 2 pm and 6 pm, guests can freely explore the baroque garden house and its idyllic garden in the Essen district of Werden, near the Ruhr River and Baldeneysee.

The Dingerkus House is a rare example of 18th-century bourgeois garden architecture – a tranquil retreat that has retained its original charm to this day. Open Sundays offer the opportunity to experience this architectural gem in peace, learn more about its history, and soak up the unique atmosphere of the place.

A regular event for anyone who appreciates culture, nature, and historical sites. Depending on the weather, the areas around Baldeneysee are perfect for relaxing after your visit. If the weather is good, a visit to Brehminsel or the pedal boat rental is also worthwhile.

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen

EU Cup for cruising sailors – International regatta at the 68th Essen Sailing Week on the Baldeneysee

On September 12th and 13th, 2026, the sailing club Baldeneysee eV (SGB) will host the EU Cup for cruising sailors as part of the 68th Essen Sailing Week. Cruising sailors from various nations will compete against each other in the Yardstick boat class, bringing an international flair to the Baldeneysee. The Yardstick rating system ensures fair competition between boat types of varying speeds. The EU Cup not only showcases the crews' skills but also fosters cross-border cooperation in watersports. Baldeneysee.Ruhr has all the dates for the 68th Essen Sailing Week.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

On Sunday, September 20, 2026, Essen-Werden becomes a meeting place for everyone who is enthusiastic about sewing and DIY projects. The German-Dutch fabric market invites you to browse, marvel and shop from 10 am to 5 pm.

Opti Ruhr-Cup 2026 – Young talents riding the wave of speed on the Baldeneysee

On September 27, 2026, the Sportgemeinschaft Ruhr 1929 eV – Sailing Division (SGRS) invites you to the Opti Ruhr Cup in the Optimist C class on the Baldeneysee. Young sailing talents will compete against each other in a friendly atmosphere and gain valuable regatta experience. The cup is dedicated to promoting young talent and offers children a great opportunity to achieve their first sporting successes. Spectators and families can look forward to a lively event with fresh winds and plenty of enthusiasm on the water.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

Wind of History – 22nd Classic Rendezvous on German Unity at Baldeneysee

On October 3, 2026, the Essen Yacht Club (EYC) invites you to the 22nd Classic Rendezvous on the Baldeneysee – a stylish gathering of traditional wooden boats as part of the holiday celebrations. Eligible are lovingly preserved or faithfully reconstructed yachts older than 30 years, built using traditional craftsmanship on frames and planks. Modern materials such as Mylar or Kevlar, as well as technical hiking aids, are deliberately excluded to preserve the original character of these boats. The Rendezvous celebrates the elegance and history of traditional boatbuilding and offers an atmospheric sailing experience that combines maritime heritage with sporting passion.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

Dingerkus Garden House: Open Sundays from June to October 2026

From June to October 2026, the Dingerkushaus invites visitors to its open house on the first Sunday of each month. Between 2 pm and 6 pm, guests can freely explore the baroque garden house and its idyllic garden in the Essen district of Werden, near the Ruhr River and Baldeneysee.

The Dingerkus House is a rare example of 18th-century bourgeois garden architecture – a tranquil retreat that has retained its original charm to this day. Open Sundays offer the opportunity to experience this architectural gem in peace, learn more about its history, and soak up the unique atmosphere of the place.

A regular event for anyone who appreciates culture, nature, and historical sites. Depending on the weather, the areas around Baldeneysee are perfect for relaxing after your visit. If the weather is good, a visit to Brehminsel or the pedal boat rental is also worthwhile.

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen

30th German Sprint Championships & 35th Kettwig Autumn Cup in Essen-Kettwig

The 30th German Sprint Rowing Championships will be held together with the 35th Kettwig Autumn Cup from Friday, October 9th to Sunday, October 11th, 2026 in Essen-Kettwig.

This once again combines the national elite sporting event with one of the most traditional regattas on the German rowing calendar. Downstream from boat Baldeneysee on the Ruhr River, the best athletes in the country will compete in high-class sprint races, while the Autumn Cup attracts a wide range of participants from clubs and recreational rowers.

The regatta grounds in Kettwig (Essen-) provide the stage for three days full of exciting competitions, intense duels, and sporting highlights. Spectators can look forward to a diverse program that combines both elite and recreational sports.

The German Rowing Federation and the organizing club, Kettwiger Rudergesellschaft eV (KRG), announced that further information regarding the schedule, registration, and supporting program will be published later this year. It is confirmed that the clubs from Baldeneysee will also be participating and will send their athletes to the race.

Baldeneysee.Ruhr wishes all rowers the best of luck!

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen

Last pots – Season finale 2026 with state championships at Baldeneysee

The Najade Essen Sailing Club (SCN) invites you to its traditional "Last Boats" regatta on October 10th and 11th, 2026, on the Baldeneysee – the sporting finale of the sailing season in Essen. Sailing will take place in the P-Boat RR, Dragon RR, and Folkboat RR classes. A special highlight: The North Rhine-Westphalia State Championships for P-Boats and Folkboats will also be held as part of the event, promising top-level competition. Experienced crews will compete against each other one last time this year in autumnal winds – ambitiously aiming for titles, glory, and a fitting end to the season.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

Elegant finale – Ruhrland Folkboat final at Baldeneysee

On October 24th and 25th, 2026, the Yacht Club Ruhrland e.V. invites you to the traditional Ruhrland Folkboat Final on the Baldeneysee. Experienced crews will compete in the Folkboat RR class at the last regatta of the season, showcasing classic yachts with character. The regatta is all about maritime flair, sporting ambition, and a fitting end to the sailing year. Under late autumn conditions, participants and spectators alike can expect a regatta weekend full of exciting races and a convivial atmosphere.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

All Saints' Regatta on the Baldeneysee

On October 31, 2026, the Essen- Kupferdreh and Surrounding Area Naval Association, founded in 1912, together with the Marine-Regatta-Verein-Essen eV (MRV), invites you to the festive All Saints' Day Regatta on the Baldeneysee. The Yardstick class is the focus of this traditional closing regatta, where sailors from various clubs will once again take to the water together to bid a fond farewell to the season. The regatta offers not only sporting competition but also a special opportunity to celebrate camaraderie on the water – a maritime finale with an autumnal flair and a spirit of community that transcends generations.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

55th Ice Cup of the O-Jolles – November wind on the Baldeneysee

On November 7th and 8th, 2026, the Baldeneysee in Essen will once again be the scene of some sporty cold sailing: The Essener Segler-Club Ruhrau eV is hosting the 55th Ice Cup for the O-Jolle RR class. Despite the late autumn temperatures, this long-standing regatta is a highlight of the O-Jolle sailors' calendar. The Ice Cup is not only a sporting competition but also a testament to true sailing passion – because only the hardiest dare to venture out onto the water in near-freezing temperatures. The regatta is considered a memorable end to the season and offers an ideal opportunity for sailing enthusiasts to connect and bond.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

Regatta of Champions – J/22 State Championship on the Baldeneysee

On November 14, 2026, the Baldeneysee will once again become the focal point of sailing in North Rhine-Westphalia: The NRW State Champions Championship brings together the best crews of the J/22 class and promises top-class regatta action in crisp autumn winds. This regatta is more than just a competition – it's a final of the best. With its central location and diverse wind conditions, the Baldeneysee offers ideal conditions for a challenging regatta experience. Wind, determination, westerly winds – NRW crowns its champions.

Photo above: imageBROKER.com

45th Christmas Market in Essen-Werden at Baldeneysee

The historic old town of Essen-Werden transforms once again into a festive winter wonderland! From November 26th to 29th, 2026, the **45th Werdener Christmas Market** invites you to four days full of sparkling lights, culinary delights and a festive atmosphere – perfect for a pre-Christmas outing with family and friends.

Werdener Christmas market visitors praised the Christmas market for its historical setting and excellent cuisine. For example, there was authentic Swiss raclette, Michelin-starred Austrian Kaiserschmarrn, and currywurst with sourdough bread and chips, accompanied by perfectly chilled champagne.

Christmas can come now.


Highlights

– Handicrafts & gift ideas from the region
– Mulled wine, waffles, roasted almonds & savory specialties


Opening hours*

*The opening hours were valid for the year 2025 and may change in 2026.

Child-friendly, warm, delicious and atmospheric – immerse yourself in the historical setting and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of the (pre-)Christmas season in the old town of Essen-Werden.

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen | Image editing: Carl de Canedido

Kettwig Advent Village in Essen-Kettwig on the Ruhr 2026

The Kettwig Advent Village invites you to an atmospheric start to the Advent season in the historic old town of Kettwig, Essen's southernmost district, from November 27th to 29th, 2026.

Around the market church, the Petershof and the Weberbrunnen fountain, visitors can expect festively decorated market stalls, creative and charity bazaars as well as a diverse music and cultural program.

There will be craft activities and performances for children, while festive lights will bathe the old town in Christmas splendor. Shops will be open on Sunday.

The program for the Kettwig Advent Village from November 27th to 29th, 2026 will follow!

Photo above: Cesar von Meissen | Image editing: Carl de Canedido | Program info / Source: Kettwig Local History and Tourism Association.