Get ready for a busy weekend in Dortmund! While many activities are happening around the Dortmunder U for 'Familiensonntag' on Sunday, Saturday offers great creative time. Check out the craft workshops and the unique animal hunt!
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Family Sunday at the U
Dortmunder U
An entire afternoon of free art workshops, tours, and gaming across multiple floors.
Fold, Glue, Turn – Build Your Mini Robot
HMKV – Lautsprecher (EBENE 4)
A creative, hands-on activity building little robots during the indoor Family Sunday.
Animal Sticker Hunt
Dortmunder U (Start at reception)
A quick, free scavenger hunt perfect for keeping toddlers and preschoolers busy.
· February 28
1FREE : Explore the interactive history of work, but the real highlight for kids is the amazing, large construction playground attached to the exhibition.The unique playground element makes this museum highly engaging for children, and one source suggests free entry.
· March 1
9FAMILY SUNDAY AT THE UFREE : The Dortmunder U opens up for families with free crafts, workshops guided by art educators, gaming sessions, and special guided tours tailored for both younger and older kids. It’s a full afternoon of culture and hands-on fun across all floors.This is the main free family event happening on Sunday, covering all ages with varied activities.
ANIMAL STICKER HUNTFREE : Search for hidden animal stickers throughout the stairwell and on the roof terrace of the Dortmunder U. Collect your card at reception and earn a small reward if you find them all!A fun, free, small activity perfect for younger kids during the larger Sunday event.
PAPER FLOWER CRAFTINGFREE : Create your own spring blossoms using paper, thread, and wooden beads to take home as decoration. This craft workshop is aimed at slightly older kids ready for detailed assembly.Hands-on crafting session during the Family Sunday, perfect for kids aged 8+ who enjoy detailed art projects.
CHICK CHAOS CRAFTINGFREE : Use glue, scissors, paper, and pens to create a cute little chicken family decoration. This is a great, easy craft activity suitable for children starting at age five.A very accessible and fun craft specifically targeting kids aged 5 and up on Sunday.
FAMILY TOUR: JOURNEY THROUGH THE UFREE : Join a guided discovery tour explaining the history of the iconic building and what activities happen inside today. Perfect for school-aged kids curious about art and architecture.A structured, age-appropriate guided tour happening three times on Sunday, making art accessible.
FOLD, GLUE, TURN – BUILD YOUR MINI ROBOTFREE : Before the big 'Robotron' exhibition opens, kids can build their own small robot using folding, gluing, and turning techniques. It’s a creative way to engage with technology themes.A hands-on tech/craft activity happening on Sunday as part of the larger free cultural offering.
COMIC READING: CHRISTOPHER TAUBER WITH 'THE THREE ??? – PHANTOM HIGHWAY'FREE : Author and artist Christopher Tauber reads from the graphic novel 'Die Drei ??? – Phantom Highway.' Stick around afterward as he will sign comics and graphic novels!Perfect activity for older kids (10+) interested in comics and mystery franchises during the free Sunday event.
: This is a great family day trip option just outside the city, running until Sunday. Enjoy the festive atmosphere before it closes for the season.It’s one of the few dated events wrapping up on Sunday, making it a 'last chance' outing nearby.
: Get an early start Sunday morning at the ice rink for a dedicated kids' disco session. A fun, active way to spend the morning.Specific event on Sunday morning at the ice rink, perfect for active kids.
Also On· anytime this weekend
5: Celebrate the 80th birthday of the world's oldest comic cowboy! This exhibition showcases the artwork behind the famous Lonesome Rider.This exhibition is running all weekend and is a great cultural stop for fans of comics.
: Explore the massive stadium independently! You can walk through key areas like the locker rooms, mixed zone, and right up to the pitch edge. Great for football-loving families.A classic Dortmund family activity available both days for independent exploration.
: Experience Antoine de Saint Exupéry's classic story brought to life through stunning immersive digital art projections in the stunning industrial setting of Phoenix des Lumières.This is an engaging, modern cultural experience that specifically appeals to families through a well-known children's book.
: Spend the day exploring naturalistic habitats focusing on South American wildlife, including the Amazon House. The zoo has dedicated play areas great for breaks.A reliable outdoor option perfect for an active Saturday outing, featuring dedicated play areas.
: This hands-on museum lets kids aged 3-12 touch and play with everything, focusing on global cultures. It's located inside the park, offering great indoor fun.It’s a dedicated indoor space for hands-on learning perfect for this time of year, suitable for ages 3+.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Dortmund this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 28-Mar 1) the best free option is the 'Family Sunday at the U' on Sunday afternoon, which includes the 'Animal Sticker Hunt' and various workshops. Other free activities are part of the general ongoing exhibitions like the DASA playground.
Is there anything special happening on Saturday, February 28th?
Saturday features the ongoing Lucky Luke Exhibition and a late-night Tango performance at the Dietrich-Keuning-Haus. For kids, check out the general opening hours for the Zoo or the BVB Stadium Walk.
Are there theater or musical events for families?
The major structured family events are concentrated on Sunday at the Dortmunder U. However, there is a 'Comic Reading: Christopher Tauber' on Sunday afternoon at Kino im U that is aimed at ages 10+.
