Mannheim May Market

The May Market has a long history beginning in 1613 in Mannheim (when the city was only six years old) after John II, Count Palatine of Zweibrücken granted it privileges.

In addition to the old cattle and horse market, agricultural equipment was now added, along with butcher's shops and sales of dairy produce.

In 1962, it was finally shifted by the Mannheim exhibition company to Friedensplatz opposite Luisen Park and with extensions it developed into its current form.

The building of the SAP Arena about 500 m away in September 2005 involved the construction of the urgently needed direct tram connection as well as a further 7,000 parking spots.

Participants have included Deep Purple, Queen, Genesis, the Rolling Stones, Robbie Williams and Bon Jovi.

Aerial view of the Maimarkt in Mannheim 2017
Main entrance (2006)
Warm-up arena and equestrian stadium (behind)
Show jumping competition, 2015
Open-air concert: Marillion with singer Fish as a supporting act for Queen at the market place (1986)