Altstadtfest and Highland Games Kempen

Scotland meets Lower Rhine — three days of Altstadtfest and Highland Games

When the sound of bagpipes echoes through the streets of Kempen's old town on the second weekend in May, you know: the Altstadtfest and Highland Games Kempen has begun. From May 8th to 10th, 2026, Werbering Kempen e.V. and XDREAM-Events will be activating two locations: the Buttermarkt with concerts and market stalls, and the Burgwiese (castle meadow) with the Highland Games and a medieval market.

Program and Opening Hours

• Friday, May 8th, 2026 — 7:00 PM–11:00 PM on the Buttermarkt, performance by stay2rock
• Saturday, May 9th, 2026 — 11:00 AM–7:00 PM Market, 11:00 AM–11:00 PM Buttermarkt. Evening concert with Stella Deluxe
• Sunday, May 10th, 2026 — 11:00 AM–7:00 PM Market, 1:00 PM–6:00 PM Sunday shopping

Highland Games — Scottish Feats of Strength on the Castle Meadow

On Saturday, the Burgwiese around Kempen Castle will transform into a Highland Games arena. Moderator: Markus „Ay Jay“ Lunau. Disciplines: Caber Toss, Stone Put, Tug of War, and Hammer Throw. Skilled athletes from all over Germany will compete. The competition will be accompanied by the pipe band White Hackle Pipes and Drums.

Market, Music, and Dance

A colorful market with crafts, fashion, unusual products, and drink stands will be set up in the pedestrian area around the Propsteimarkt. Regional dance groups and cheerleaders will perform on a separate stage. A carousel will be available for children. A medieval market with crafts, mead, and culinary specialties will open directly at the castle.

Kempen — the Medieval Town on the Lower Rhine

Kempen is located in the Viersen district on the western Lower Rhine, about 15 kilometers north of Krefeld. With nearly 35,000 inhabitants and one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in North Rhine-Westphalia — including its town wall, four city gates, castle complex, and collegiate church — the town is a preferred destination for day trips. Kempen Castle, dating from the 14th century, forms the central backdrop for the festival.

Werbering Kempen — The Association Behind It

Werbering Kempen e.V. is an association of Kempen retailers, restaurateurs, and service providers. For years, it has curated the Altstadtfest and the Sunday shopping events. In cooperation with XDREAM-Events, the concept was expanded to include the Highland Games — a format inspired by Dutch and British models that has since become a brand.