Ansbach
Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, 91522 Ansbach, Deutschland
Ansbach Exhibition Grounds | Parking & Address
The Ansbach Exhibition Grounds is the central open space for folk festivals, touring shows, and circus performances in the district capital of Middle Franconia. Those who want to experience rides with the whole family, celebrate in the festival tent, or attend large tent shows will find a well-accessible, spacious, and practical location here. The grounds are located on Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and are accessed via Schalkhäuser Straße. A special advantage is the large, free parking lot directly on site: According to the city of Ansbach, there are 400 parking spaces available at the exhibition grounds without time limits – ideal for day and evening events. Since 2025, the site has also served as the new home of the Ansbach Spring Festival, which was previously celebrated on the Hofwiese. With around 9,000 square meters of usable open space, the area can be flexibly used depending on the event – from the festival tent to trade fairs. Seating and hall plans are therefore always event-dependent and provided by the respective organizer. Those arriving by public transport can use the city buses (ABuV/VGN) to the area of Schalkhäuser Straße/Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and follow the signage. The following sections consolidate all important information on access, parking, programs, tickets, seating plans, and special features of the grounds – compact and up to date with official sources.
Access and Parking at Ansbach Exhibition Grounds
For driving directions, enter 'Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, 91522 Ansbach' into your navigation system. The exhibition grounds are located in the northern part of the city in an area connected via Schalkhäuser Straße. A significant orientation aid is the street 'Am Onolzbach': media reports highlight that access to the area can be consolidated here. This structural situation facilitates visitor management and the temporary securing of the festival site during major events. On site, guests benefit from a crucial advantage: The city of Ansbach operates the 'Exhibition Grounds' parking lot with 400 spaces as a free parking area – without time limits. This makes access particularly convenient for families and groups, as parking tickets and maximum parking duration do not apply here. Depending on the event, guidance is provided by staff; temporary closures and altered traffic routes will be signposted. Even those planning a city stroll are well advised: According to city information, the historic old town can be reached on foot from the exhibition grounds in about 13 minutes. For visitors who rely on barrier-free paths, the marked, level walking paths from the parking lot to the entrance are recommended; at tent events, separate entrances are usually available, details will be provided by the organizer. Information on closure times or altered access routes – for example, during setup and dismantling – can be viewed in advance on the event pages. For tour buses, the edge areas of the parking lot are suitable; the exact stopping and turning options are usually regulated in the logistics concept for larger events. Those arriving by bicycle will find parking options along the access roads. Please note that during busier days (e.g., premieres, holidays), arriving earlier avoids traffic jams and makes finding parking easier. A parking guidance system in the strict sense is not required at the exhibition grounds, as the parking spaces are clearly arranged; if demand increases, the city may designate additional nearby areas.
Events and Programs at the Exhibition Grounds
The profile of the exhibition grounds is deliberately broad: folk festivals, circuses, and large family shows shape the calendar. A milestone was the city's decision to hold the Ansbach Spring Festival at the exhibition grounds starting in 2025. The premiere took place from May 23 to June 1, 2025, and expanded the format: For ten days, rides operated, the festival tent offered a diverse program, and the additional space allowed for a more generous arrangement. As a reason for the relocation, the responsible parties cited structural advantages that make it easier to secure the area against unauthorized vehicle access. For upcoming editions, the city communicates the dates early; entries for the Spring Festival can already be found on the tourism portal – including the address of Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and a note on the broad supporting program. In addition to the Spring Festival, the Ansbach Christmas Circus is part of the regular repertoire: Over the turn of the year 2025/26, a performance period with location information in the area of Schalkhäuser Straße is recorded in the city’s event calendar. Circuses bring their tents along with seating and transform the exhibition grounds into their own experience world with numbered seats, boxes, and gastronomy. A retrospective shows how diverse the portfolio is: In 2023, the family production 'Yakari – the Indian-strong Horse Show' performed at the exhibition grounds, combining acrobatics, equestrian art, and live staging – an example that the space also meets the needs of touring shows with extensive infrastructure. Aside from large formats, markets, exhibitions, or trade fairs can be realized on the grounds at times. The additional freedom of movement provided by around 9,000 m² of usable space also allows for new program ideas – from expanded safety zones to wider paths between rides and market stalls. Tip: Since tickets, entry times, and program points vary depending on the organizer, it is worthwhile to check the dates from Tourism Ansbach and the information from the respective organizer before each visit. This way, you are always informed about special days such as senior, family, or blue light days.
Seating Plan, Hall Plan, and Capacity of the Open Area
The exhibition grounds are not a classic hall building with a fixed hall plan, but a flexibly usable festival site. This means: The division of entrances, paths, stages, tents, and gastronomy is planned anew for each event and coordinated with the authorities. This allows for very different concepts to be implemented – from open areas with standing areas to closed tent productions with numbered seats. An important orientation value for planning is the available space: According to a local news portal, over 9,000 m² are available. However, how many visitors may be present at the same time does not result from a blanket area factor, but from the approved safety and escape route concept. Accordingly, there is no “standard” seating plan for the exhibition grounds. Circus performances – such as the Ansbach Christmas Circus – bring their own tent with numbered seating, often with different seating categories (e.g., box, parquet, tier). These plans are provided exclusively by the organizer; they are part of the ticket shop. At folk festivals, open paths, beer garden areas, and a festival tent with tables and benches, which are often reservable, dominate. Standing places in front of stages and on the fairground are generally freely accessible; individual attractions (Ferris wheel, rides) regulate access with their own ticket booths. For guests with mobility restrictions, organizers usually set up barrier-free entrances and level access paths; the respective event pages also provide information on this. Those seeking the “best seats” should orient themselves according to the type of event: In circus and show formats, central blocks in the front rows are popular; in the festival tent, a seat with a view of the stage is recommended depending on the music program, without sitting too close to the aisles. In general, it applies: Seating and hall plans are always event-related, and only the information from the organizers is binding. A quick check of the current plans before booking ensures that you select exactly the desired seating category.
Tickets and Booking: Official Sources and Tips
Since the exhibition grounds are operated as a neutral festival site, there is no central ticket office for all events. Instead, the respective organizers sell their tickets through their own shops or through common advance sales outlets. For the Spring Festival, typically free outdoor areas are the focus; reservations are more related to seats in the festival tent or special events within the program. Circus performances – for example, the Christmas Circus – use their official online shop or local advance sales partners; there you will also find the exact seating plan, performance times, discounts, and information on accessibility. For family-friendly events such as touring shows (e.g., the Yakari Horse Show 2023), it is common to have multiple performances per day on weekends, while evening slots dominate during the week. Those who plan flexibly often find a larger selection of space and price. A practical tip for visitors traveling from the region: Check the timetable information of the VGN or the Ansbach bus lines if you want to leave the car behind – especially on busy days. In addition, the city and organizers communicate special regulations as needed, such as additional signposts, controlled entrances, or temporary barriers. Ensure that you purchase tickets only from the officially linked sources to avoid dubious resales. For weather-dependent open-air elements, organizers follow published bad weather rules; in many cases, tent productions are played regardless of the weather. For groups, clubs, and companies, it is advisable to inquire early about contingents in the festival tent or group orders. Those coming with small children should pay attention to organizer notes on child discounts and age ratings. For questions about lost property, entry regulations, or reservations, the respective organizer is always your direct contact; the contact details can be found in the city’s event calendar or on the event pages.
Address, Location, and Orientation on Site
The official address of the exhibition grounds is 'Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, 91522 Ansbach'. In city event notices and tourism entries, Schalkhäuser Straße is additionally mentioned for individual events; it describes the adjacent traffic area through which the site is accessed. Convenient for navigation users: Follow the signage 'Exhibition Grounds' on site; for major events, organizers set up additional signposts from the main access roads and stops. Those coming on foot from the train station can reach the grounds through the city area in about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the route and pace; from the old town, it takes about 13 minutes to the 'Exhibition Grounds' parking lot. The site itself is clear: parking spaces and event areas are located close together, allowing for short paths. During the setup phase of a folk festival or a circus performance, the access paths are well-structured and visible; staff assist with orientation. Gastronomy, sanitary facilities, and ticket booths are located at the edge of the festival site or inside the tent, depending on the format. For safety, a coordinated concept is used, which regulates escape routes, barriers, and access; media reports mention the controllable access 'Am Onolzbach' as an advantage. The owner of the grounds is the district of Middle Franconia; the city operates and coordinates events in close cooperation with the organizers. For market and city festivals that do not take place at the exhibition grounds, the city center offers additional locations; corresponding announcements (e.g., 'Ansbach Fair – Food & Fine') are communicated separately by the city. Those visiting the exhibition grounds for the first time should ideally plan some extra time for orientation, especially for evening events and during the dark season. Thanks to the level surfaces and clear paths, orientation is straightforward; at tent events, signage indicates the entrances, ticket booths, and emergency exits. Bicycles are parked in the edge areas; please do not block emergency routes. Dogs are to be kept on a leash unless expressly prohibited, with the respective house rules of the organizer applying.
History and Special Features: From Exhibition Site to Festival Grounds
The area is described in local media as a former exhibition ground and has been used in various ways in recent years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the site served as a municipal testing center for the city and district; the facility was closed after about two and a half years on February 28, 2023. With the restart of the event calendar, the question of a suitable, well-secured festival site came into focus. The city council decided to relocate the Spring Festival 2025 from its previous location on the Hofwiese to the former exhibition grounds – a step that benefits from practice: The topography with the consolidated access 'Am Onolzbach' facilitates securing against unauthorized vehicle access; at the same time, sufficient parking spaces are available. Reports on the Spring Festival 2025 evaluate the premiere at the new site as successful; in summer 2025, the responsible committee discussed officially designating the exhibition grounds as a location for the coming years. Another advantage is the size: A regional news portal estimates the available event space at over 9,000 m² – enough for larger rides, wider paths, and a more relaxed visitor experience. The flexible usability of the space is demonstrated by examples from recent years: From family productions like the Yakari Horse Show to large circus performances, the range is broad; the Ansbach Christmas Circus uses the location over the turn of the year and brings a fully equipped tent with its own seating and ticketing. This creates synergies for the city: The exhibition grounds relieve inner-city spaces, allow for clear safety and traffic management, and provide the showmen with predictable infrastructure. Visitors benefit from easy accessibility, free parking, and clear pathways between the entrance, festival tent, rides, and gastronomy. Overall, the exhibition grounds have thus established themselves as a modern festival site that combines tradition (folk festival, citizens' shooting, senior dance) with new formats – from blue light days to training actions to thematic shows. Those looking for current dates should best check the city’s event calendar and the pages of the respective organizers.
Sources:
- City of Ansbach – Parking in Ansbach (Parking Lot Exhibition Grounds, 400 free)
- Tourism Ansbach – Ansbach Spring Festival (Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, Dates)
- Fränkischer.de – Ansbach Spring Festival 2025 Moves (over 9,000 m², Data)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Spring Festival Moves to Exhibition Grounds (Access Am Onolzbach)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Opening Spring Festival 23.05.2025 (Premiere at New Festival Site)
- Tourism Ansbach – Christmas Circus in Ansbach (Performance Period 23.12.2025–11.01.2026)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Yakari Horse Show 2023 at the Exhibition Grounds
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Closure of the Municipal Corona Testing Center on 28.02.2023
- VGN – Timetable Information for Ansbach (Public Transport Arrival)
- Kirmes-Index – Ansbach Spring Festival (History, Dates)
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Ansbach Exhibition Grounds | Parking & Address
The Ansbach Exhibition Grounds is the central open space for folk festivals, touring shows, and circus performances in the district capital of Middle Franconia. Those who want to experience rides with the whole family, celebrate in the festival tent, or attend large tent shows will find a well-accessible, spacious, and practical location here. The grounds are located on Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and are accessed via Schalkhäuser Straße. A special advantage is the large, free parking lot directly on site: According to the city of Ansbach, there are 400 parking spaces available at the exhibition grounds without time limits – ideal for day and evening events. Since 2025, the site has also served as the new home of the Ansbach Spring Festival, which was previously celebrated on the Hofwiese. With around 9,000 square meters of usable open space, the area can be flexibly used depending on the event – from the festival tent to trade fairs. Seating and hall plans are therefore always event-dependent and provided by the respective organizer. Those arriving by public transport can use the city buses (ABuV/VGN) to the area of Schalkhäuser Straße/Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and follow the signage. The following sections consolidate all important information on access, parking, programs, tickets, seating plans, and special features of the grounds – compact and up to date with official sources.
Access and Parking at Ansbach Exhibition Grounds
For driving directions, enter 'Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, 91522 Ansbach' into your navigation system. The exhibition grounds are located in the northern part of the city in an area connected via Schalkhäuser Straße. A significant orientation aid is the street 'Am Onolzbach': media reports highlight that access to the area can be consolidated here. This structural situation facilitates visitor management and the temporary securing of the festival site during major events. On site, guests benefit from a crucial advantage: The city of Ansbach operates the 'Exhibition Grounds' parking lot with 400 spaces as a free parking area – without time limits. This makes access particularly convenient for families and groups, as parking tickets and maximum parking duration do not apply here. Depending on the event, guidance is provided by staff; temporary closures and altered traffic routes will be signposted. Even those planning a city stroll are well advised: According to city information, the historic old town can be reached on foot from the exhibition grounds in about 13 minutes. For visitors who rely on barrier-free paths, the marked, level walking paths from the parking lot to the entrance are recommended; at tent events, separate entrances are usually available, details will be provided by the organizer. Information on closure times or altered access routes – for example, during setup and dismantling – can be viewed in advance on the event pages. For tour buses, the edge areas of the parking lot are suitable; the exact stopping and turning options are usually regulated in the logistics concept for larger events. Those arriving by bicycle will find parking options along the access roads. Please note that during busier days (e.g., premieres, holidays), arriving earlier avoids traffic jams and makes finding parking easier. A parking guidance system in the strict sense is not required at the exhibition grounds, as the parking spaces are clearly arranged; if demand increases, the city may designate additional nearby areas.
Events and Programs at the Exhibition Grounds
The profile of the exhibition grounds is deliberately broad: folk festivals, circuses, and large family shows shape the calendar. A milestone was the city's decision to hold the Ansbach Spring Festival at the exhibition grounds starting in 2025. The premiere took place from May 23 to June 1, 2025, and expanded the format: For ten days, rides operated, the festival tent offered a diverse program, and the additional space allowed for a more generous arrangement. As a reason for the relocation, the responsible parties cited structural advantages that make it easier to secure the area against unauthorized vehicle access. For upcoming editions, the city communicates the dates early; entries for the Spring Festival can already be found on the tourism portal – including the address of Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and a note on the broad supporting program. In addition to the Spring Festival, the Ansbach Christmas Circus is part of the regular repertoire: Over the turn of the year 2025/26, a performance period with location information in the area of Schalkhäuser Straße is recorded in the city’s event calendar. Circuses bring their tents along with seating and transform the exhibition grounds into their own experience world with numbered seats, boxes, and gastronomy. A retrospective shows how diverse the portfolio is: In 2023, the family production 'Yakari – the Indian-strong Horse Show' performed at the exhibition grounds, combining acrobatics, equestrian art, and live staging – an example that the space also meets the needs of touring shows with extensive infrastructure. Aside from large formats, markets, exhibitions, or trade fairs can be realized on the grounds at times. The additional freedom of movement provided by around 9,000 m² of usable space also allows for new program ideas – from expanded safety zones to wider paths between rides and market stalls. Tip: Since tickets, entry times, and program points vary depending on the organizer, it is worthwhile to check the dates from Tourism Ansbach and the information from the respective organizer before each visit. This way, you are always informed about special days such as senior, family, or blue light days.
Seating Plan, Hall Plan, and Capacity of the Open Area
The exhibition grounds are not a classic hall building with a fixed hall plan, but a flexibly usable festival site. This means: The division of entrances, paths, stages, tents, and gastronomy is planned anew for each event and coordinated with the authorities. This allows for very different concepts to be implemented – from open areas with standing areas to closed tent productions with numbered seats. An important orientation value for planning is the available space: According to a local news portal, over 9,000 m² are available. However, how many visitors may be present at the same time does not result from a blanket area factor, but from the approved safety and escape route concept. Accordingly, there is no “standard” seating plan for the exhibition grounds. Circus performances – such as the Ansbach Christmas Circus – bring their own tent with numbered seating, often with different seating categories (e.g., box, parquet, tier). These plans are provided exclusively by the organizer; they are part of the ticket shop. At folk festivals, open paths, beer garden areas, and a festival tent with tables and benches, which are often reservable, dominate. Standing places in front of stages and on the fairground are generally freely accessible; individual attractions (Ferris wheel, rides) regulate access with their own ticket booths. For guests with mobility restrictions, organizers usually set up barrier-free entrances and level access paths; the respective event pages also provide information on this. Those seeking the “best seats” should orient themselves according to the type of event: In circus and show formats, central blocks in the front rows are popular; in the festival tent, a seat with a view of the stage is recommended depending on the music program, without sitting too close to the aisles. In general, it applies: Seating and hall plans are always event-related, and only the information from the organizers is binding. A quick check of the current plans before booking ensures that you select exactly the desired seating category.
Tickets and Booking: Official Sources and Tips
Since the exhibition grounds are operated as a neutral festival site, there is no central ticket office for all events. Instead, the respective organizers sell their tickets through their own shops or through common advance sales outlets. For the Spring Festival, typically free outdoor areas are the focus; reservations are more related to seats in the festival tent or special events within the program. Circus performances – for example, the Christmas Circus – use their official online shop or local advance sales partners; there you will also find the exact seating plan, performance times, discounts, and information on accessibility. For family-friendly events such as touring shows (e.g., the Yakari Horse Show 2023), it is common to have multiple performances per day on weekends, while evening slots dominate during the week. Those who plan flexibly often find a larger selection of space and price. A practical tip for visitors traveling from the region: Check the timetable information of the VGN or the Ansbach bus lines if you want to leave the car behind – especially on busy days. In addition, the city and organizers communicate special regulations as needed, such as additional signposts, controlled entrances, or temporary barriers. Ensure that you purchase tickets only from the officially linked sources to avoid dubious resales. For weather-dependent open-air elements, organizers follow published bad weather rules; in many cases, tent productions are played regardless of the weather. For groups, clubs, and companies, it is advisable to inquire early about contingents in the festival tent or group orders. Those coming with small children should pay attention to organizer notes on child discounts and age ratings. For questions about lost property, entry regulations, or reservations, the respective organizer is always your direct contact; the contact details can be found in the city’s event calendar or on the event pages.
Address, Location, and Orientation on Site
The official address of the exhibition grounds is 'Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, 91522 Ansbach'. In city event notices and tourism entries, Schalkhäuser Straße is additionally mentioned for individual events; it describes the adjacent traffic area through which the site is accessed. Convenient for navigation users: Follow the signage 'Exhibition Grounds' on site; for major events, organizers set up additional signposts from the main access roads and stops. Those coming on foot from the train station can reach the grounds through the city area in about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the route and pace; from the old town, it takes about 13 minutes to the 'Exhibition Grounds' parking lot. The site itself is clear: parking spaces and event areas are located close together, allowing for short paths. During the setup phase of a folk festival or a circus performance, the access paths are well-structured and visible; staff assist with orientation. Gastronomy, sanitary facilities, and ticket booths are located at the edge of the festival site or inside the tent, depending on the format. For safety, a coordinated concept is used, which regulates escape routes, barriers, and access; media reports mention the controllable access 'Am Onolzbach' as an advantage. The owner of the grounds is the district of Middle Franconia; the city operates and coordinates events in close cooperation with the organizers. For market and city festivals that do not take place at the exhibition grounds, the city center offers additional locations; corresponding announcements (e.g., 'Ansbach Fair – Food & Fine') are communicated separately by the city. Those visiting the exhibition grounds for the first time should ideally plan some extra time for orientation, especially for evening events and during the dark season. Thanks to the level surfaces and clear paths, orientation is straightforward; at tent events, signage indicates the entrances, ticket booths, and emergency exits. Bicycles are parked in the edge areas; please do not block emergency routes. Dogs are to be kept on a leash unless expressly prohibited, with the respective house rules of the organizer applying.
History and Special Features: From Exhibition Site to Festival Grounds
The area is described in local media as a former exhibition ground and has been used in various ways in recent years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the site served as a municipal testing center for the city and district; the facility was closed after about two and a half years on February 28, 2023. With the restart of the event calendar, the question of a suitable, well-secured festival site came into focus. The city council decided to relocate the Spring Festival 2025 from its previous location on the Hofwiese to the former exhibition grounds – a step that benefits from practice: The topography with the consolidated access 'Am Onolzbach' facilitates securing against unauthorized vehicle access; at the same time, sufficient parking spaces are available. Reports on the Spring Festival 2025 evaluate the premiere at the new site as successful; in summer 2025, the responsible committee discussed officially designating the exhibition grounds as a location for the coming years. Another advantage is the size: A regional news portal estimates the available event space at over 9,000 m² – enough for larger rides, wider paths, and a more relaxed visitor experience. The flexible usability of the space is demonstrated by examples from recent years: From family productions like the Yakari Horse Show to large circus performances, the range is broad; the Ansbach Christmas Circus uses the location over the turn of the year and brings a fully equipped tent with its own seating and ticketing. This creates synergies for the city: The exhibition grounds relieve inner-city spaces, allow for clear safety and traffic management, and provide the showmen with predictable infrastructure. Visitors benefit from easy accessibility, free parking, and clear pathways between the entrance, festival tent, rides, and gastronomy. Overall, the exhibition grounds have thus established themselves as a modern festival site that combines tradition (folk festival, citizens' shooting, senior dance) with new formats – from blue light days to training actions to thematic shows. Those looking for current dates should best check the city’s event calendar and the pages of the respective organizers.
Sources:
- City of Ansbach – Parking in Ansbach (Parking Lot Exhibition Grounds, 400 free)
- Tourism Ansbach – Ansbach Spring Festival (Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, Dates)
- Fränkischer.de – Ansbach Spring Festival 2025 Moves (over 9,000 m², Data)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Spring Festival Moves to Exhibition Grounds (Access Am Onolzbach)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Opening Spring Festival 23.05.2025 (Premiere at New Festival Site)
- Tourism Ansbach – Christmas Circus in Ansbach (Performance Period 23.12.2025–11.01.2026)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Yakari Horse Show 2023 at the Exhibition Grounds
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Closure of the Municipal Corona Testing Center on 28.02.2023
- VGN – Timetable Information for Ansbach (Public Transport Arrival)
- Kirmes-Index – Ansbach Spring Festival (History, Dates)
Ansbach Exhibition Grounds | Parking & Address
The Ansbach Exhibition Grounds is the central open space for folk festivals, touring shows, and circus performances in the district capital of Middle Franconia. Those who want to experience rides with the whole family, celebrate in the festival tent, or attend large tent shows will find a well-accessible, spacious, and practical location here. The grounds are located on Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and are accessed via Schalkhäuser Straße. A special advantage is the large, free parking lot directly on site: According to the city of Ansbach, there are 400 parking spaces available at the exhibition grounds without time limits – ideal for day and evening events. Since 2025, the site has also served as the new home of the Ansbach Spring Festival, which was previously celebrated on the Hofwiese. With around 9,000 square meters of usable open space, the area can be flexibly used depending on the event – from the festival tent to trade fairs. Seating and hall plans are therefore always event-dependent and provided by the respective organizer. Those arriving by public transport can use the city buses (ABuV/VGN) to the area of Schalkhäuser Straße/Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and follow the signage. The following sections consolidate all important information on access, parking, programs, tickets, seating plans, and special features of the grounds – compact and up to date with official sources.
Access and Parking at Ansbach Exhibition Grounds
For driving directions, enter 'Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, 91522 Ansbach' into your navigation system. The exhibition grounds are located in the northern part of the city in an area connected via Schalkhäuser Straße. A significant orientation aid is the street 'Am Onolzbach': media reports highlight that access to the area can be consolidated here. This structural situation facilitates visitor management and the temporary securing of the festival site during major events. On site, guests benefit from a crucial advantage: The city of Ansbach operates the 'Exhibition Grounds' parking lot with 400 spaces as a free parking area – without time limits. This makes access particularly convenient for families and groups, as parking tickets and maximum parking duration do not apply here. Depending on the event, guidance is provided by staff; temporary closures and altered traffic routes will be signposted. Even those planning a city stroll are well advised: According to city information, the historic old town can be reached on foot from the exhibition grounds in about 13 minutes. For visitors who rely on barrier-free paths, the marked, level walking paths from the parking lot to the entrance are recommended; at tent events, separate entrances are usually available, details will be provided by the organizer. Information on closure times or altered access routes – for example, during setup and dismantling – can be viewed in advance on the event pages. For tour buses, the edge areas of the parking lot are suitable; the exact stopping and turning options are usually regulated in the logistics concept for larger events. Those arriving by bicycle will find parking options along the access roads. Please note that during busier days (e.g., premieres, holidays), arriving earlier avoids traffic jams and makes finding parking easier. A parking guidance system in the strict sense is not required at the exhibition grounds, as the parking spaces are clearly arranged; if demand increases, the city may designate additional nearby areas.
Events and Programs at the Exhibition Grounds
The profile of the exhibition grounds is deliberately broad: folk festivals, circuses, and large family shows shape the calendar. A milestone was the city's decision to hold the Ansbach Spring Festival at the exhibition grounds starting in 2025. The premiere took place from May 23 to June 1, 2025, and expanded the format: For ten days, rides operated, the festival tent offered a diverse program, and the additional space allowed for a more generous arrangement. As a reason for the relocation, the responsible parties cited structural advantages that make it easier to secure the area against unauthorized vehicle access. For upcoming editions, the city communicates the dates early; entries for the Spring Festival can already be found on the tourism portal – including the address of Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße and a note on the broad supporting program. In addition to the Spring Festival, the Ansbach Christmas Circus is part of the regular repertoire: Over the turn of the year 2025/26, a performance period with location information in the area of Schalkhäuser Straße is recorded in the city’s event calendar. Circuses bring their tents along with seating and transform the exhibition grounds into their own experience world with numbered seats, boxes, and gastronomy. A retrospective shows how diverse the portfolio is: In 2023, the family production 'Yakari – the Indian-strong Horse Show' performed at the exhibition grounds, combining acrobatics, equestrian art, and live staging – an example that the space also meets the needs of touring shows with extensive infrastructure. Aside from large formats, markets, exhibitions, or trade fairs can be realized on the grounds at times. The additional freedom of movement provided by around 9,000 m² of usable space also allows for new program ideas – from expanded safety zones to wider paths between rides and market stalls. Tip: Since tickets, entry times, and program points vary depending on the organizer, it is worthwhile to check the dates from Tourism Ansbach and the information from the respective organizer before each visit. This way, you are always informed about special days such as senior, family, or blue light days.
Seating Plan, Hall Plan, and Capacity of the Open Area
The exhibition grounds are not a classic hall building with a fixed hall plan, but a flexibly usable festival site. This means: The division of entrances, paths, stages, tents, and gastronomy is planned anew for each event and coordinated with the authorities. This allows for very different concepts to be implemented – from open areas with standing areas to closed tent productions with numbered seats. An important orientation value for planning is the available space: According to a local news portal, over 9,000 m² are available. However, how many visitors may be present at the same time does not result from a blanket area factor, but from the approved safety and escape route concept. Accordingly, there is no “standard” seating plan for the exhibition grounds. Circus performances – such as the Ansbach Christmas Circus – bring their own tent with numbered seating, often with different seating categories (e.g., box, parquet, tier). These plans are provided exclusively by the organizer; they are part of the ticket shop. At folk festivals, open paths, beer garden areas, and a festival tent with tables and benches, which are often reservable, dominate. Standing places in front of stages and on the fairground are generally freely accessible; individual attractions (Ferris wheel, rides) regulate access with their own ticket booths. For guests with mobility restrictions, organizers usually set up barrier-free entrances and level access paths; the respective event pages also provide information on this. Those seeking the “best seats” should orient themselves according to the type of event: In circus and show formats, central blocks in the front rows are popular; in the festival tent, a seat with a view of the stage is recommended depending on the music program, without sitting too close to the aisles. In general, it applies: Seating and hall plans are always event-related, and only the information from the organizers is binding. A quick check of the current plans before booking ensures that you select exactly the desired seating category.
Tickets and Booking: Official Sources and Tips
Since the exhibition grounds are operated as a neutral festival site, there is no central ticket office for all events. Instead, the respective organizers sell their tickets through their own shops or through common advance sales outlets. For the Spring Festival, typically free outdoor areas are the focus; reservations are more related to seats in the festival tent or special events within the program. Circus performances – for example, the Christmas Circus – use their official online shop or local advance sales partners; there you will also find the exact seating plan, performance times, discounts, and information on accessibility. For family-friendly events such as touring shows (e.g., the Yakari Horse Show 2023), it is common to have multiple performances per day on weekends, while evening slots dominate during the week. Those who plan flexibly often find a larger selection of space and price. A practical tip for visitors traveling from the region: Check the timetable information of the VGN or the Ansbach bus lines if you want to leave the car behind – especially on busy days. In addition, the city and organizers communicate special regulations as needed, such as additional signposts, controlled entrances, or temporary barriers. Ensure that you purchase tickets only from the officially linked sources to avoid dubious resales. For weather-dependent open-air elements, organizers follow published bad weather rules; in many cases, tent productions are played regardless of the weather. For groups, clubs, and companies, it is advisable to inquire early about contingents in the festival tent or group orders. Those coming with small children should pay attention to organizer notes on child discounts and age ratings. For questions about lost property, entry regulations, or reservations, the respective organizer is always your direct contact; the contact details can be found in the city’s event calendar or on the event pages.
Address, Location, and Orientation on Site
The official address of the exhibition grounds is 'Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, 91522 Ansbach'. In city event notices and tourism entries, Schalkhäuser Straße is additionally mentioned for individual events; it describes the adjacent traffic area through which the site is accessed. Convenient for navigation users: Follow the signage 'Exhibition Grounds' on site; for major events, organizers set up additional signposts from the main access roads and stops. Those coming on foot from the train station can reach the grounds through the city area in about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the route and pace; from the old town, it takes about 13 minutes to the 'Exhibition Grounds' parking lot. The site itself is clear: parking spaces and event areas are located close together, allowing for short paths. During the setup phase of a folk festival or a circus performance, the access paths are well-structured and visible; staff assist with orientation. Gastronomy, sanitary facilities, and ticket booths are located at the edge of the festival site or inside the tent, depending on the format. For safety, a coordinated concept is used, which regulates escape routes, barriers, and access; media reports mention the controllable access 'Am Onolzbach' as an advantage. The owner of the grounds is the district of Middle Franconia; the city operates and coordinates events in close cooperation with the organizers. For market and city festivals that do not take place at the exhibition grounds, the city center offers additional locations; corresponding announcements (e.g., 'Ansbach Fair – Food & Fine') are communicated separately by the city. Those visiting the exhibition grounds for the first time should ideally plan some extra time for orientation, especially for evening events and during the dark season. Thanks to the level surfaces and clear paths, orientation is straightforward; at tent events, signage indicates the entrances, ticket booths, and emergency exits. Bicycles are parked in the edge areas; please do not block emergency routes. Dogs are to be kept on a leash unless expressly prohibited, with the respective house rules of the organizer applying.
History and Special Features: From Exhibition Site to Festival Grounds
The area is described in local media as a former exhibition ground and has been used in various ways in recent years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the site served as a municipal testing center for the city and district; the facility was closed after about two and a half years on February 28, 2023. With the restart of the event calendar, the question of a suitable, well-secured festival site came into focus. The city council decided to relocate the Spring Festival 2025 from its previous location on the Hofwiese to the former exhibition grounds – a step that benefits from practice: The topography with the consolidated access 'Am Onolzbach' facilitates securing against unauthorized vehicle access; at the same time, sufficient parking spaces are available. Reports on the Spring Festival 2025 evaluate the premiere at the new site as successful; in summer 2025, the responsible committee discussed officially designating the exhibition grounds as a location for the coming years. Another advantage is the size: A regional news portal estimates the available event space at over 9,000 m² – enough for larger rides, wider paths, and a more relaxed visitor experience. The flexible usability of the space is demonstrated by examples from recent years: From family productions like the Yakari Horse Show to large circus performances, the range is broad; the Ansbach Christmas Circus uses the location over the turn of the year and brings a fully equipped tent with its own seating and ticketing. This creates synergies for the city: The exhibition grounds relieve inner-city spaces, allow for clear safety and traffic management, and provide the showmen with predictable infrastructure. Visitors benefit from easy accessibility, free parking, and clear pathways between the entrance, festival tent, rides, and gastronomy. Overall, the exhibition grounds have thus established themselves as a modern festival site that combines tradition (folk festival, citizens' shooting, senior dance) with new formats – from blue light days to training actions to thematic shows. Those looking for current dates should best check the city’s event calendar and the pages of the respective organizers.
Sources:
- City of Ansbach – Parking in Ansbach (Parking Lot Exhibition Grounds, 400 free)
- Tourism Ansbach – Ansbach Spring Festival (Gustav-Weißkopf-Straße, Dates)
- Fränkischer.de – Ansbach Spring Festival 2025 Moves (over 9,000 m², Data)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Spring Festival Moves to Exhibition Grounds (Access Am Onolzbach)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Opening Spring Festival 23.05.2025 (Premiere at New Festival Site)
- Tourism Ansbach – Christmas Circus in Ansbach (Performance Period 23.12.2025–11.01.2026)
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Yakari Horse Show 2023 at the Exhibition Grounds
- Fränkische Landeszeitung – Closure of the Municipal Corona Testing Center on 28.02.2023
- VGN – Timetable Information for Ansbach (Public Transport Arrival)
- Kirmes-Index – Ansbach Spring Festival (History, Dates)
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Reviews
Ferdinand Herrmann
14. August 2025
Many good and unfortunately also some bad shows (circus shows, themed shows, etc.) as well as the Ansbach Spring Festival since 2025. If there's an event on site, it's definitely worth stopping by. There are plenty of parking spaces nearby.
Krümel Monster (Krümelmonster)
15. May 2021
There's not much to say about the exhibition grounds. Right now, it just says Test & Vaccination Center. It's organized and clean. Reminds me of a larger doctor's office (in a tent). It's a conveyor belt concept. I didn't have long wait times and was treated quickly. The staff was very dedicated and really nice. I would have liked better information about the vaccine, but you can't have it all. I found the missing information online.
Conny R.
1. November 2023
Very nice performance (Yakari), we and our granddaughter really enjoyed it.
JoanStef B.
23. March 2021
An abandoned area with a lot of rubbish. The vaccination & testing center is surrounded by an unpaved parking lot. This has been "fenced" off with plastic tape. The entrance/exit is uneven. Large outdoor lights have been set up around the area for good illumination.
Jan Memhardt
26. March 2021
The Corona testing and vaccination center are connected here, with professional and very nice staff and plenty of parking. Tests can be booked online or by phone!