Parking lot at the weir

International Canoe Spring Regatta on the 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

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

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

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

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