When will the City Star Ferris wheel make its rounds in Ludwigsburg again?

When will the City Star Ferris wheel make its rounds in Ludwigsburg again?

The “City Star” Ferris wheel in Ludwigsburg is missing and has no longer had a place in the city since September 2024. As the largest transportable Ferris wheel in the world, it was first built in the Bärenwiese parking lot at the beginning of 2022. At its premiere it attracted more than 260,000 visitors. In March 2024, the Ferris wheel returned for another six-month season, but was only able to delight around 150,000 guests. The last ride took place on September 8th, and the value of the Ferris wheel's visibility is estimated to be in the high six figures Stuttgart News reported.

The organizer Eventstifter and the city of Ludwigsburg had agreed to rebuild the Ferris wheel every three to five years. The reason for the shorter break between the 2022 and 2024 visits was several anniversaries in the region, which increased interest in a new installation. However, an exact date for the return of the Ferris wheel has not yet been determined. According to current information, the next deployment could take place between 2027 and 2030, depending on various factors, including upcoming construction in the area.

Marketing and tourism added value

The deputy managing director of Tourismus & Events Ludwigsburg, Elmar Kunz, emphasizes the high marketing value of the Ferris wheel. Not only was it an attraction that shaped the cityscape, but it also brought synergy effects by being promoted in combination with other attractions such as the castle and the Venetian Fair. Although the Ferris wheel alone was not the only reason for a visit, it did enrich the stay of many tourists and business travelers. These make up around 75% of overnight stays in Ludwigsburg. In addition, the Ferris wheel helped to present the city from a new perspective, which is seen as having a positive effect on tourism, especially among conference guests.

The presence of the Ferris wheel was also visible from the highway, enhancing the Ludwigsburg skyline and attracting attention. Particularly noteworthy is the effect the attraction had on social media, where visitors shared their experiences and thus increased the visibility of Ludwigsburg Ludwigsburg24 reported.

It appears that citizens, as well as many interested parties who wanted to use the Ferris wheel for marriage proposals, have already sent several requests for its re-installation. The renovation of the Forum from 2027 is unlikely to affect the use of the Bärenwiese car park for major events. The Göbel-Worms company is currently storing the City Star, which will be transported to London in November, while hopes of a return to the city remain.