150 Years Volunteer Fire Brigade Colmberg

An Anniversary Brigade in the Shadow of Colmberg Castle

The Volunteer Fire Brigade Colmberg was founded in 1876 and is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026. Colmberg is a market town with around 2,100 inhabitants in the district of Ansbach in West Middle Franconia – picturesquely situated below the castle of the same name, Colmberg Castle, one of the few completely preserved hilltop castles in Southern Germany dating from the 11th century. Today, the castle houses a hotel; the town below is characterized by Franconian half-timbered houses and an active club scene.

Festival Weekend on May 16th and 17th, 2026

The anniversary festival will take place on Saturday, May 16th, and Sunday, May 17th, 2026. At the same time, the modernized fire station will be officially handed over for its intended use. The festivities begin on Saturday evening with a ceremonial reception in the festival tent, attended by representatives of the Ansbach District Fire Brigade Association, the market administration, the parish council, and friendly fire brigades from the Middle Franconia District Fire Brigade Association. Afterwards, the celebration continues in the festival tent with a brass band and a dance band.

Celebratory Church Service and Parade on Sunday

On the celebratory Sunday, the day begins with a celebratory church service – traditionally held outdoors or, in bad weather, in the festival tent. This is followed by a Frühschoppen with Franconian brass music and, around noon, the grand parade through the town center. Friendly brigades from neighboring municipalities, traditional costume groups, shooting clubs, youth clubs, and music bands from the Ansbach district will participate in the procession. After the parade, lunch will be served in the festival tent, followed by a relaxed afternoon.

Tradition and Modernization

The FFW Colmberg is one of the oldest brigades in the Ansbach district. In 150 years, it has dealt with numerous fires, severe weather, traffic accidents, and technical assistance operations. With the newly modernized fire station, the association is well-equipped for the coming decades; the anniversary offers the perfect opportunity to showcase this publicly.

A Celebration That Brings All of West Middle Franconia Together

In West Middle Franconia, Bavarian club anniversaries are much more than extended regulars' tables – they are major social events that highlight village community, customs, and family life. For the market town of Colmberg, also known for tourism due to its castle, the Franconian Switzerland nature reserve, and its proximity to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the 150th fire brigade anniversary is a highlight in the 2026 festival calendar.