What It's About

This guide is aimed at anyone who wants to attend events in Amberg and the Upper Palatinate with their dog in the coming months. The focus is on upcoming markets, festivals, and open-air formats as well as regular dates. Please check the official event calendar for up-to-date information before each visit, as organizers may adjust rules (e.g., leash requirements, restricted areas, entry) at short notice.

Upcoming: Winter 2025/26

Advent and Christmas Markets

During Advent, festive markets take place in Amberg and the surrounding area. For human-dog teams, quieter time slots (early afternoon on weekdays) are especially recommended. Leash requirements generally apply in crowded areas; some market areas may be restricted for dogs. Check the respective event profiles in the city calendar in advance.

Winter City Strolls and Light Events

Open-air program points such as illuminated tours or small stage formats are common in the cold season. For dogs, keeping a distance from loudspeakers is advisable; wear non-slip shoes and use short, closely held leashes to maintain control in crowds.

Preview: Spring 2026

Spring and Easter Markets

Seasonal markets with regional products invite you to stroll through the city from spring onwards. For dogs, off-peak times with lower attendance are suitable. Observe any signage (e.g., no entry in designated dining areas) and always have a short leash ready.

Outdoor Events and First Open-Air Series

With rising temperatures, the first open-air programs begin. Many series are designed to be audience-friendly; find out in advance whether there are quiet edge zones and whether dogs are explicitly allowed.

Preview: Summer 2026

City and Cultural Festivals

Summer festivals, open-air concerts, and film nights are popular program points. Dogs are welcome on many outdoor areas on a leash, but loud stage areas are often not suitable. Seek out shady spots early and bring water with you.

Lake Festivals and Shore Events in the Region

Seasonal festivals and supporting programs take place around the larger lakes of the Upper Palatinate. Different rules apply depending on the area. Find out in advance whether dogs are allowed on the shore area and whether there are designated paths for visitors with dogs.

Preview: Autumn 2026

Autumn and Farmers' Markets

Regional harvest markets and gourmet festivals bring culinary highlights to the city centers. For relaxed visits with your dog, the first opening hours are recommended. Pay attention to notices about leash requirements and possible dog zones.

Regularly Recurring Dates

• Weekly markets in Amberg: According to the city's event calendar, markets are held weekly in the old town. Please refer to the current entries in the city calendar for exact weekdays, times, and locations.
• Farmers' and specialty markets: In addition to the weekly markets, themed markets are planned throughout the year. Check in advance whether dogs are allowed on the market grounds and whether special rules apply.
• Small open-air formats: Pop-up concerts, readings, or culinary stands can be announced at short notice. Information on bringing dogs can be found in the respective event details.

How to Plan Dog-Friendly Event Visits

1. Check event page: The official event page provides entry and attendance information (dogs, leash requirements, restricted zones).
2. Choose quiet times: Off-peak times avoid crowds. Plan for breaks and retreat areas.
3. Think about safety: Short leash, well-fitting harness, possibly a muzzle (e.g., on public transport) ready.
4. Watch the weather: In summer, water and shade; in winter, cold protection and non-slip surfaces.
5. Respect others: Keep distance from children's areas, food stands, and dense visitor flows.

Short Checklist Before You Start

• Is the event location dog-friendly according to the calendar and are the rules clear?
• Is there an alternative route or a quiet side spot if it gets crowded?
• Water, waste bags, short leash, and possibly a muzzle packed?
• Organizer's contact saved to ask in case of uncertainties?

Sources and Further Information

1. City of Amberg – Culture & Leisure (Event Calendar) — Official entry point for city events (accessed 2025-11-24)
2. City of Amberg – Official City Portal — Current information and contact for tourist information (accessed 2025-11-24)
3. District of Amberg-Sulzbach – Official Site — Regional information, references to events and leisure (accessed 2025-11-24)
4. Oberpfalz.de – Regional Portal — Overview of events and seasonal programs in the Upper Palatinate (accessed 2025-11-24)