The Potsdam Schlösserlauf (Potsdam Palaces Run), organised by Sportbund Potsdam e.V., is holding its tenth-anniversary event on 2 June 2013. For running enthusiasts and active holidaymakers this presents an ideal opportunity to visit the regional capital of Brandenburg. There is a half-marathon or 10km race, both of which are open to race walkers and Nordic walkers.

And away from the course as well, Potsdam is well worth a visit. Whether it's the Russian Alexandrowka colony or the wonderful rococo Palace of Sanssouci, where Frederick the Great once lived – there is much to marvel at in this former seat of the Prussian rulers. At the top of the list for families is the nearby Babelsberg Film Studios, where famous films such as 'Die Feuerzangenbowle' were made.

It is going to get loud in Nuremberg's Dutzendteich Park from 1 to 3 June 2013 when the city hosts its annual Rock im Park music festival. The festival, which runs at the same time as Rock am Ring, is one of the biggest events in Germany, attracting nearly 80,000 people. Every year since 1997, fans of live music have been flocking to the festival and partying to the sounds of more than 60 well-known bands. This year's line-up includes world-famous acts such as Green Day as well as popular German pop and rock bands.

If you prefer something a little quieter, be sure to visit the beautiful centre of Nuremberg. With its picturesque buildings and countless museums – the Albrecht Dürer House for example – it has plenty to offer culturally minded visitors. And in winter, the Christmas market is a magical experience for all.

Following the success of the existing Discovery Centre in Berlin a new centre will be opening its doors in May 2013 in Oberhausen. Painstaking attention to detail has transformed this indoor park into a paradise for kids. Whether it's fighting off evil trolls with laser guns, singing on the LEGO® karaoke stage or seeing colourful pellets turned into those famous little bricks at the live factory show – there's something for everyone at the Discovery Centre. And after all those energetic activities you might feel like grabbing a bite to eat in the café or taking it easy in the 4D cinema.

As an alternative (or in addition), other attractions in the area include Sealife and Germany's biggest shopping centre, Centro Oberhausen. It's a mecca for shoppers, and also gives parents something to look forward to.

There are three opportunities (18-19 May, 15-16 June and 1 September 2013) to discover some of the most beautiful gardens in Rheinhessen. The countless different examples of garden design are testament to the versatility of this remarkable region. From arboretums through to English rose gardens and even lovingly tended herb gardens, nature lovers will be in awe with so many unique gardens to explore.

Afterwards, the magnificent old quarter in Mainz or the Hessian capital of Wiesbaden are well worth a visit. You can soak up the region's magical atmosphere there while sipping fine wine.

On 2 June the spotlight falls on the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Germany. 2013 marks the eleventh edition of this annual spectacle celebrated on the first Sunday of June. This special day is all about preserving and shaping UNESCO World Heritage, and encourages people to discover the reach and uniqueness of the UNESCO philosophy.

World Heritage Day in Germany is hosted by a different UNESCO site each year – and this time it's the turn of Bamberg with its World Heritage old quarter. There's lots going on here and at other World Heritage attractions such as the Messel Pit Fossil Site and Saalburg Roman fort, part of the Limes frontier in the Taunus hills.

Ever wanted to touch a life-sized dinosaur or get close to prehistoric reptiles that still walk the earth today? Then head to the Klimahaus in Bremerhaven between 15 March and 3 November 2013 for an exhibition exploring 'Prehistoric Creatures – the Limits of Evolution'. It's a day out the whole family will enjoy.

Bremerhaven boasts plenty of other attractions too, including the German Emigration Centre. In the early 20th century, thousands of people passed through this city on the North Sea as they set sail across the 'pond' to embark on a new life in the distant land of America. This fascinating history is brought to life at the museum.

To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Richard Wagner, a host of events exploring the life of the great composer are taking place in Dresden this year. As part of the Richard Wagner anniversary year, cultural institutes in the capital of Saxony are hosting numerous events under the banner 'Dresden. where Wagner evolved into WAGNER'.

The exhibition at Dresden City Museum, on from 27 April to 25 August 2013, is especially worth seeing. It presents sites in the city associated with Wagner's life and work, and sheds light on the people who most influenced him as a person and as a creative individual.

There will be an explosive atmosphere in Hannover from 25 May to 21 September 2013 as the city hosts its 23rd International Firework Competition.

On five different dates, teams of pyrotechnicians from all over the world will be putting on impressive shows to demonstrate their skills. No expense will be spared on the colourful rockets and amazing displays that will light up the sky in spectacular fashion. To accompany the competition, events will be taking place in the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen. In the impressive setting of the gardens, visitors can enjoy a programme of theatrical performances, music and other firework-themed entertainment. Also worth a visit is Herrenhausen Palace, which is located in the gardens and has recently reopened after extensive restoration.

The famous 'green sauce' will be taking centre stage in Frankfurt from 11 May 2013. This regional speciality (which according to legend was invented by Goethe's mother) is so important to the Frankfurt locals that they hold a week-long festival in its honour every year on Rossmarkt square.

In seven different shows, seven restaurateurs from the Frankfurt area will compete to create the finest green sauce of all. Every evening 400 fans of this local delicacy, which is made with seven herbs, will decide which of the seven chefs should be crowned the winner. The whole event is complemented by a varied programme of entertainment including German golden oldies, comedy, a cappella music and lots of other live acts.

This year the seven lakes walk celebrates its tenth anniversary. You can join in the fun from 3 to 5 May 2013, as walking enthusiasts of all ages are welcomed in Markkleeberg for this event. The walk takes in seven of the 22 Leipzig Lakes on a total route of 104 kilometres. Visitors can put together their own tour from the individual walks, adapting the length and route to their particular needs. The supporting programme includes live entertainment on all three evenings, creating a great atmosphere for the walkers. The grand finale is a spectacular firework display on Sunday evening.