Fetish Fair? The 101 for BDSM Fairs

BDSM Fairs in Germany

Recently, there was the Fetish Celebration in Cologne, the Passion Fair in Hamburg is coming up in November, followed by the Obscene Fair in Karlsruhe in spring, Boundcon in Munich in summer, and the German Fetish Ball in Berlin. These events, known as "Fetish / BDSM Fairs," now take place in all directions across Germany and have been around for years.

What Can You Experience at a Fetish Fair?

The main hall of a fair is usually filled with a variety of stalls. Here, you can typically find ginger spray or ginger massage oil. We often bring other exciting items from brands with a similar philosophy to ours: natural, handmade products for all senses. For example, high-quality Shibari & Bondage ropes made of jute or hemp from Vaegabound, wooden dildos and plugs from Munich-based brand Weppy, or colored stearin candles for wax play from Cupido. Stearin candles are an alternative to regular paraffin candles.

Fetish Clothing and BDSM Gear

The main hall is also packed with an impressive selection of fetish clothing. Leather items, like those from XMorenium, or mixed-material pieces from Subused are commonly seen.

Of course, you’ll also find BDSM equipment, toys, and accessories—everything to make your heart race. And sometimes you’ll stumble across unexpected items like wine, BDSM-themed T-shirts by Darkxnash, furniture, or attachments that turn everyday DIY tools into masturbators. Another highlight is the colorful, alien-like creations from Ivy Toys: unique toys made from medical-grade silicone.

Clubs, Community, and Bondage Areas

In addition to vendors, clubs, local stores, and places where you can experience BDSM firsthand often have their own stands. Many fairs now feature a bondage area where attendees can try out ropes, knots, and positions during the fair. Clubs and local meetups offer information in a casual setting, often providing informational materials or even coffee and cake. Clubs and studios showcase their BDSM toys and furniture to attract visitors. Even dating apps and specialized kink and BDSM communities present their services on-site, like the platform DEVIANCE, developed by the community in Munich.

Stage Shows and Performances

It’s not just about spending money; fairs often include a complex stage program, often spread across multiple stages. Here, you’ll find a range of performances, from acrobatics, burlesque, bondage, body suspension, bullwhip demonstrations, electro-stimulation shows, singing, and pole dancing by artists from around the world. Brands with stalls at the fair often showcase their designs in fashion shows here.

There are also guided talks, lectures, and comedy shows, providing a lot of value for the admission fee.

Workshops and Hands-On Experiences

If you’re interested in learning something new, fairs also offer workshops taught by performers, exhibitors, and educators. From bondage to pony play, there’s a wide variety of courses. The workshops last 1-3 hours and provide the perfect opportunity to dive into a topic or meet people who can give an introduction. Often, there are special offers or even free workshops.

After-Parties and Kinky Events

After the fair, there are often parties, sometimes several! This is where you can showcase your fresh purchases and dance the night away.

Your Checklist for Attending Fairs

• How many days do I want to attend?
• Two days might be enough to see everything, but sometimes three days allow for a more relaxed experience.
• What events interest me?
• Be sure to check the hall map and program in advance.
• Which workshops do I want to attend?
• Workshops typically require prior online booking, but if there’s space, you may also sign up spontaneously.
• What’s on my kinky wishlist?
• It’s very helpful to clarify what you want to test and try out in advance and get information about relevant exhibitors.
• Which exhibitors do I absolutely want to visit?
• This also helps to make a list of must-see exhibitors, which you can mark on the map.
• If you want to buy clothing, wear something easy to take on and off.
• If attending a workshop, make sure you have the right clothing and equipment with you.

In general: go, explore, and have fun!

By the way, we’ll be at the Passion Fair in Hamburg next in November.