by Marie Krolikowski
Located in the Missouri River Valley is a city straight out of a children’s storybook. Founded by German immigrants in 1837, the area was soon covered in vineyards. Still full of that German influence, Hermann is a mix of 19th-century brick buildings that house unique restaurants, bars and shops. There are over 600 rooms for those wanting an extended stay, from inns and guesthouses to B&Bs.
Hermann still produces more than 178,000 gallons of wine each year and is home to several wineries that visitors can visit and participate in. If wine is not your drink of choice, there are also distilleries and breweries.
This welcoming city welcomes thousands of visitors every year. For history lovers, there are many museums and historical sites and sites. Outdoor activists can join a walking tour, rent an e-bike, and explore the Katy Trail, paddle, or fish the Missouri River. There are many hiking trails and a campground that accommodates both RV and tent camping.
Arts and theater abound in Hermann, and a festival is held almost every weekend. There are both amateur and professional theater groups. The historic City Park stage and Clara Eitmann-Messmer Amphitheater host major concerts and music festivals.
When you visit, don’t be surprised to see the bride and groom, as Hermann has become a top destination for the perfect wedding event. Whether large or small, spectacular or intimate, there are both indoor and outdoor venues to choose from.
Tammy Bruckerhoff has served as Hermann’s Director of Tourism and Economic Development since 2018. In addition to leading marketing efforts for the city, she oversees the Visitor Information Center at its Amtrak station and serves on MORPAC (Members Advisory Committee). Missouri Railroad) as Chairman of the Marketing Committee and Member of the Legislative Committee Team.
Born and raised in Hermann, Bruckerhoff said the best part of her job is numerous. “I love our history and culture,” she explained. “I love when visitors come for the first time and return, when couples choose to have their wedding here, the musicians who come to Hermann to share their talents, when during the high season live music is offered seven days a week, “We have a variety of lodging establishments for visitors to stay, and we have a beautiful park system with a campground for RVs and tents.”
The small town with a population of 2,300 has pickleball courts, tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields, a basketball court, a public pool, and several playgrounds.
Hermann is a welcoming community for both visitors and business owners who want to call Hermann “home,” Bruckerhoff said. “We have so many attractions and yet we still have so much room to grow. I love the beauty of our area and the people who work so hard to continue what our ancestors started. The people are the ones who can start as your host. en Hermann, but he will soon become your friend.”
Get there:
Hermann is less than a two-hour drive from the Lake of the Ozarks.
For those who prefer to sit back and relax, the Amtrak Missouri River Runner is a short 40-minute ride from Jefferson City to the Hermann Train Station, located just one block from downtown.
Festivals:
Some of the main festivals and events in Hermann:
Hermann Wine Route
February, April, May, July, November, December
The Hermann Wine Route offers an exciting wine experience for novice or expert wine lovers. This event offers six popular wine and food pairing events each year at charming family-owned wineries. Advance tickets are required.
HermannWineTrail.com
gangster
Third weekend of May
Held every May for more than 70 years, this event is an old-fashioned celebration of spring and the city’s German heritage. Includes parade, German music and dancers, outdoor shopping and demonstrations, children’s games, food and drink.
MaifestHermann.org
Guided tours of the Hermann garden
First weekend of June
An opportunity to enter private gardens of early summer flowers, herbs and vegetables. Attendees can visit the gardeners, enjoy a walking tour of the city gardens, and drive to rural gardens in the hills surrounding Hermann.
HermannGardenTours.com
freedom festival
July 4-6, 2024
Celebrate American Independence in Hermann with the town parade, a town band performance, and a fireworks show over the Missouri River on July 5. Other events will take place throughout the weekend.
Visit Hermann.com/events
smoke party
Third Saturday in September
This charity event is held annually at the Clara Eitmann-Messmer Amphitheater. It features an amateur barbecue competition, whiskey tastings, live music, cigars and a silent auction.
HogsHeadCigars.com
Oktoberfest
Every weekend in October
Enjoy stunning fall foliage while attending this annual celebration of German heritage. Traditional German music and dance, stein hoisting competitions, delicious food, beer garden and crafts are some of the offerings.
Visit Hermann.com/events
Christmas in Hermann
Mid November to December
This is the most magical time of year in Hermann. See the ornately decorated storefronts and twinkling lights throughout the city. Shop for special crafts and gifts at German Christmas markets and shops, shop for treats at the German bake sale, attend Hermann’s Holiday Home Tour or Children’s Lantern Parade, attend a holiday concert, and more.
The town of Hermann was recently the setting for the movie “A Christmas Vintage.” Filmed almost entirely in Hermann, those who know the city will recognize many of the places and landmarks from the film.
Other events:
First Friday Art Walks: May, September, and October
Hermann Plein Air Festival – June 8 to 14
Hermann Whiskey Trail: June 14 and 15 and December 6 and 7
Missouri Bourbon Festival – August 3
Hermann Blue Oval Rally – August 23-24
River City Cruisers Cruise – September 14
German Town Jams – September 14
Hermann Harvest Festival – September 28
Arts and Crafts Festival – October 12 and 13
Witches and Wine Festival – October 24
Great Stone Hill Beast Festival – December 13
For a complete list of events, visit the website at:
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