Altmühltaler Lammauftrieb Mörnsheim

Traditions in the Altmühltal Nature Park

Mörnsheim is located in the Eichstätt district, in the heart of the Altmühltal Nature Park. The region is one of Bavaria's oldest sheep farming landscapes — for centuries, sheep have grazed on the calcareous juniper heaths of the Altmühltal, shaping the landscape. The Altmühltaler Lammauftrieb is the central traditional event for this heritage and, at the same time, the annual brand festival for the regional brand "Altmühltaler Lamm".

The Drive — Sheep Through the Market Center

The highlight of the three festival days is the actual drive: On Saturday and Sunday afternoons, shepherd Sascha Gäbler will lead his large flock of hundreds of sheep, lambs, and goats through the historic village center. Thousands of spectators line the streets — a spectacle between tradition and popular entertainment. For the children in the market, it is the experience of the year.

Lamb Queen and Shepherd's Market

On Saturday afternoon, the new Altmühltaler Lammkönigin (Altmühltal Lamb Queen) will be crowned on Kastnerplatz — an ambassador for the sheep farming region and the regional brand. On both days, the Shepherd's and Natural Products Market will run concurrently, featuring sheep wool, felt products, leather goods, herbal products, and handicrafts from the Altmühltal.

Culinary Program — "Altmühltaler Lamm"

Innkeepers and clubs will offer specialties from the Altmühltaler Lamm: roast lamb, lamb gyros, lamb sausages, along with vegetarian alternatives. The regional brand guarantees origin from the Nature Park — an example of regional value creation that can be experienced in Mörnsheim once a year.

More Than Just a Festival Market

The festival kicks off on Friday evening with a cabaret evening featuring Sara Brandhuber ("A scheena Schmarrn!") at the Haus des Gastes. Sunday morning features a celebratory service with animal blessing at the "Maria End" pilgrimage church, followed by a discovery tour "On the Trail of Sheep and Shepherd". For the 2026 drive, Federal Minister of Agriculture Alois Rainer will also be present — the festival also launches the International Year of the Shepherd.