On 4 August 2012 Ludwigsburg Palace in Ludwigsburg will be transformed into a party venue for the Festival of the Generations. People of all ages are descending on this town on the river Neckar to enjoy a fun-packed programme of live music , entertainment and speciality food and drink from Baden-Württemberg – a wonderful summer's evening against the magnificent backdrop of the palace.

An exhibition celebrating 300 years since the birth of Frederick the Great can be seen at Rheinsberg Palace near Berlin until 28 October 2012. The works of art on display depict scenes from the life of the Prussian king. Both the exhibition and the state rooms in the palace are a must for anyone with an interest in art.

Classic German pilsners and many other varieties of the amber nectar are on offer at the Berlin International Beer Festival from 3 to 5 August 2012. As well as the beer garden atmosphere and selection of delicious food, a number of bands will be getting the party in full swing. A wonderful festival for enjoying German beers and good company!

Wines from the Moselle region take centre stage at the Olewig Wine Festival in Trier, on until 6 August 2012. Local vineyards are showcasing their wines and visitors have plenty of opportunity to sample a glass or two. Speciality food and live music complete the programme at this welcoming wine festival.

The focus is firmly on climbing at the Alpentestival in Garmisch-Partenkirchen from 3 to 5 August 2012. Exhibitors will be showcasing clothing for outdoor pursuits and leisure activities and visitors have the opportunity to test climbing equipment. Cycling enthusiasts can also hire bikes to tour the lakes. And all of this in a scenic climatic health resort at the foot of the Alps.

Once again, the Main Festival in Frankfurt, Hessen, sees the banks of the river Main become a destination for fun and excitement. From 3 to 6 August 2012 the colourful lights, thrilling fairground rides and aromas of delicious food will be appealing to young and old alike. The festival offers plenty of entertainment for the whole family and the highlight of the weekend is the firework finale.

From 3 to 5 August 2012 Hannover is once again hosting the Fährmannsfest, the region's biggest alternative open-air music festival. With top entertainment and great music, the atmosphere in Lower Saxony's regional capital will be buzzing, promising plenty of fun for young and old alike.

The city of Herne in the Ruhr region hosts the Cranger Kirmes fair from 2 to 12 August 2012. The biggest funfair in North Rhine-Westphalia offers countless ways for people to enjoy themselves, with everything from white-knuckle rides and shooting galleries to a variety of food and drink. Roasted almonds and candy floss are among the delicious treats on offer for whole family!

The award-winning musical Hairspray continues its run in Merzig, between Saarbrücken and Trier, until 2 September 2012. Toe-tapping tunes and talented performers provide the wow factor at this sensational show. Hairspray is great fun for audiences young and old, transporting them to a world full of dance, music and showbiz glamour.

Visitors to the Stuttgart Summer Festival, held from 1 to 5 August, will discover mediterranean flair in the heart of the city. The white marquees on the boulevard between the New Palace, Art Building and Opera House offer gourmet food and drink and 110 hours of live music. And in the evening, impressive light installations create a magical atmosphere.