In Short
At the Fest der Keramik in Hamburg there is something to discover everywhere: handmade mugs, plates, bowls, small works of art and unusual one-off pieces. There are also workshops, coffee and cake, and a really lovely venue. The festival usually takes place in September and brings many different ceramicists and creative exhibitors to Hamburg every year. If you like handmade things or are simply curious about what can be made from clay, you should definitely check out the event.
Ceramics in Every Shape and Style
What we especially loved was the huge variety. The different stalls showcase a genuinely wide range of work. Some pieces are colorful, playful and perfect for children, while others are simple, modern and so elegant that they look like small works of art.
That is exactly the appeal of the Fest der Keramik Hamburg. As you walk through the hall, you keep discovering a new style. Even if you are not necessarily looking to buy anything, it is fun to look at the pieces and chat with the people behind the products. And of course, there is always a chance that a new favorite mug or a special bowl will end up coming home with you.
Workshops at Fest der Keramik
But the festival is not just about sales stalls. One real highlight is the range of workshops where you can get creative yourself and learn more about different techniques. We tried two workshops during our visit.
The first was a Kintsugi workshop with Ken Ando. Kintsugi is the Japanese technique of repairing broken ceramics without trying to make the damage invisible. Instead, the break lines are deliberately highlighted and made part of the design. We found it fascinating to experience this distinctive approach for ourselves.
Afterwards, we took part in a tea ceremony with Till Wesseloh. It was a lovely contrast to the bustle in the hall and, at the same time, a great way to experience ceramics from a completely different perspective.
For some workshops, you need to register in advance. If there is a particular session you definitely want to join, it is worth checking the details early.
Try the Pottery Wheel Yourself
Would you rather not just watch, but try for yourself how ceramics are made? Fest der Keramik offered that opportunity too. At the event, you could even sit down at a potter’s wheel and see what it feels like to shape clay on the wheel. What looks so easy when experienced ceramicists do it is, of course, a very different story in practice.
You can find more great festivals, activities and tips here!
The Gleishallen as a Special Venue
The venue is also a great fit for the festival. The Fest der Keramik takes place in the Gleishallen in Hamburg, whose industrial character provides a great backdrop for the many small stalls. The mix of old hall architecture, modern ceramics and the many different exhibitors creates a special atmosphere. You can stroll leisurely from stall to stall and take plenty of time to browse.
Coffee, Cake and Hobenköök
At some point, you naturally need a little break from all the stalls. Right at the festival, there is coffee and cake, so you can recharge along the way. Right next door, you will also find the Hobenköök restaurant with its adjoining shop. It is easy to combine with a visit to the ceramics festival. You can eat there before or after your walk around the event, or spend a little more time browsing the shop.
Practical Tips for Fest der Keramik Hamburg
- Keep an eye on the date: The festival usually takes place in September. Check the current date here well in advance if you want to plan your visit.
- Admission: On our visit, admission was 5 €.
- Reserve workshops: Some workshops require advance registration. Popular sessions can fill up quickly.
- Get creative yourself: Look out for opportunities where you can try techniques or have a go at the pottery wheel yourself.
- Take a break: Coffee and cake are available right at the event. For something more substantial, the neighboring Hobenköök is also a good option.
- Do not hesitate too long over your favorite pieces: Many ceramic pieces are handmade one-offs. If you really like something, grab it straight away!
You can find more impressions and inspiration from Hamburg on our Instagram account!
