Over 300 short films from more than 40 countries will be evaluated for artistic merit at the International Short Film Festival in Hamburg from 29 May to 4 June 2012. The art of short filmmaking is not restricted to any one genre, tends towards experimentation and is uncompromising in its approach. A wide-ranging programme and the involvement of international names make this event in the north of Germany one not to be missed!

Each year during Whitsun, Biebrich Palace Park in Wiesbaden plays host to the International Whitsun Horse Show, a world-famous equestrian tournament and part of the Global Champions Tour. Between 25 to 28 May 2012, this exclusive historical venue provides the backdrop for the best in equestrian sport in the show jumping, dressage and eventing disciplines.

The annual Africa Festival in Würzburg, Lower Franconia, has been one of Europe's biggest festivals of African music and culture for over 20 years. In 2012, the spotlight falls on the Cape Verde islands and Senegal. Between 25 and 28 May, many thousands of visitors will be gathering on the banks of the Main to share in the exuberance and cultural riches of this great continent.

Between 26 and 28 May 2012, studios and workshops throughout Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania are opening their doors to the public for the Kunst:Offen arts and crafts festival. Five hundred painters, artists, sculptors, photographers and other creative souls will be offering everybody from the enthusiast to the curious visitor a glimpse into their work.

The East Frisian islands – or the island of Norderney off the coast of Lower Saxony to be more precise – provide the venue for this year's White Sands Festival from 25 to 28 May 2012. A festival of fun-packed, on-trend sports, this now legendary event features the highest German beach volleyball series and the German Windsurfing Cup. There are also lots of parties to enjoy, a fantastic atmosphere and smiling faces everywhere.

Every year, nearly 30,000 people from the Gothic and 'dark' scene descend upon Leipzig for the Wave Gothic Festival. Between 25 and 28 May 2012, audiences representing a broad alternative spectrum enjoy over a hundred concerts as well as a varied programme of entertainment including film screenings, club nights, readings, exhibitions, medieval markets and workshops.

The wine-themed walk around Marienburg Abbey on 27 May 2012 will delight all enthusiasts of wine and walking. The 10km route traverses the sunny, vine-clad slopes of the Moselle wine region and offers magnificent panoramic views of the river. Wine-growers and local associations will be serving typical food and wine from the Moselle region at unspoilt locations along the way.

The Fressgass (quite literally 'glutton lane') is the culinary heart of Frankfurt. The Fressgass Festival is being held in the area between the Alter Oper concert hall and Hauptwache until 1 June 2012, and offers a mouthwatering array of food and drink including Hessen wines, Rhineland beers and international specialities. The atmosphere of classic German gemütlichkeit makes this a great place to while away the summer evenings with views of the Frankfurt skyline.

On 27 and 28 May 2012, visitors to Heldburg Fortress in Thuringia will feel as if they have stepped back in time to the Middle Ages. The abundance of market stalls and entertainment performed by minstrels, strolling players and knights will appeal to young and old alike. There is also plenty of food and drink to keep hunger at bay. The highlight of the event is the Celtic rock 'n' beat concert in the castle courtyard.

A big Whitsun market is taking place at the Remstalkellerei wine cooperative in Weinstadt-Beutelsbach on 26 and 27 May 2012. At this delightful farmers market, you can browse for fresh, local produce and regional specialities, and, of course, sample the finest wines from the Württemberg wine region.