The "Schwörwoche" is one of Ulm’s most popular festivals with its Lichterserenade (serenade of lights) on the Danube, the historical Fischerstechen (jousting between fishermen) and the water carnival "Nabada" on "Schwörmontag". Many bands play at different places in the town and transform Ulm into a huge festival.

 

The International Danube Festival attracts many visitors with its exhibitions, concerts and gastronomy, and focuses on the art, music and food and drink typical of the European cultures on the Danube.

In addition to these big festivals, the Glacis-Park is the setting for open-air rock and jazz concerts throughout the summer. The Ulmer Zelt (Ulm Marquee) in the Friedrichsau offers cabaret and music for six weeks in the summer and attracts annually around 80,000 visitors to view the national and international stars and newcomers to the stage.

In winter the "Ulmer Weihnachtsmarkt" is one of the biggest and most popular Christmas markets in southern Germany and is the meeting point for many visitors and guests in the town.