Attracting more than 5,000 sailors from over 50 countries, the Kiel Week regatta is one of the world's most important sailing events. But it is also one of the largest fairs and city festivals in northern Europe, transforming Kiel's city centre into one big fairground. Taking place from 16 to 24 June 2012, it brings culinary specialities from every continent to the Baltic coast and includes well over 1,000 events, such as open-air concerts and children's activities.