Karlsruhe in the summer heat: worries and joy at the party by the lake!
Karlsruhe: Summer complaints, traffic policy and cultural events such as the “Festival by the Lake” characterize the city.

Karlsruhe in the summer heat: worries and joy at the party by the lake!
It's going to be loud again this summer in Karlsruhe with people complaining about all sorts of things. Whether it's too hot in summer or too cold and snowless in winter, the citizens' discontent seems inexhaustible. You hear it again and again: the parking situation is perceived by some as inadequate and by others as overcrowded. The city's transport policy causes frustration among both drivers and cyclists, who often feel disadvantaged. The permanent construction site along Kriegsstrasse at the Karoline Luise Tunnel, which characterizes the city, is causing additional discontent. Some people from Karlsruhe can only think of one word: boredom. Big city character – none!
Football fans in particular are dissatisfied. The KSC has been playing in the second division for years now, which makes the fans' eyes watery. Interestingly, many newcomers praise the city more than the locals. They appreciate the vibrant culture and activities. For example, the free festivities under the motto “Festival by the Lake” are currently taking place in the Günther-Klotz complex, while the renowned “Das Fest” is coming up. Variety and a good mood are guaranteed here.
Diversity in summer
A highlight will be “The Festival”, which has something to offer for all generations. In the past, numerous well-known artists such as [Rea Garvey](https://www.karlsruhe-erleben.de/ Veranstaltung/das-fest-2025-afb72c0cf9), [Clueso](https://www.karlsruhe-erleben.de/ Veranstaltung/das-fest-2025-afb72c0cf9) and [Silbermond](https://www.karlsruhe-erleben.de/ Veranstaltung/das-fest-2025-afb72c0cf9) and the line-up leaves nothing to be desired this year either. The organizers have set themselves the goal of appealing to all segments of the population, both culturally and entertainingly, regardless of age or income.
A wide range of activities are available for younger visitors, ranging from care and play opportunities to small adventures. The highlight is the annual FEST Cup, which attracts sporting talent in skateboarding and fingerboarding. Children and families can look forward to a unique “FESTIVE atmosphere”, which is appreciated by many visitors. The FEST Café and the classical breakfast series on the main stage on Sunday mornings are also particularly popular.
Urban development at a glance
While the people of Karlsruhe are enjoying the festival, preparations for the city's future are underway in the background. On May 16, 2023, the local council decided to create an integrated urban development concept (ISEK) for Karlsruhe by 2040. This concept is intended to serve as a framework for orientation and action and is a prerequisite for funding programs. The evaluation of the previous ISEK 2020 was completed in the summer of 2024 and shows where the city can still make improvements.
All interest and actor groups are integrated into the process, including citizens, companies and cultural and educational institutions. This means everyone can have their voice and contribute to future urban development. This happens in different phases: from the analysis to the setting of target systems to concrete projects that are implemented after the end of the planning phase.
It remains to be seen whether the city will do justice to the critical voices of its citizens and transform Karlsruhe into a city full of life. But one thing is certain: the anticipation of “The Festival” and the hope for positive changes will continue to carry people through the summer.