Soester Altstadtfrühling

Spring in Soest's Old Town

The Soester Altstadtfrühling marks the season opener of Soest's event tradition. On the weekend of May 9th and 10th, 2026, the 19th edition will take place — and thus the first major event that fills the historic old town of the former Hanseatic city with life again in spring after the winter break.

Soest's Old Town — A Historic Setting

Soest is considered one of the most beautiful old towns in Westphalia. With its historic churches (St. Patrokli, Hohnekirche, St. Maria zur Wiese), the well-preserved city wall, and characteristic green sandstone buildings, the city is an architectural highlight in itself. During the Altstadtfrühling, this setting is actively used: market stalls, activities, and exhibitors are spread across the central squares and streets.

What Makes the Altstadtfrühling Special

The concept combines three pillars:

• First Sunday Shopping of the Year — the most important spring shopping occasion
• Spring Market with numerous exhibitors, regional products, and spring decorations
• Crowning of the new Soester Börde Queen as a festive highlight

Soester Börde Queen — The Regional Representative

The Soester Börde Queen is a traditional representative of the agriculturally characterized Soester Börde — the fertile lowland around Soest, one of Germany's most productive arable regions. The Queen represents the region at trade fairs, festivals, and tourist events. Her crowning at the Altstadtfrühling is a traditional part of the program.

Exhibitors and the Market

Experience has shown that the spring market typically features:

• Regional producers (honey, cheese, baked goods, sausage from the Soester Börde)
• Plant and garden specialists
• Crafts and artisanal goods
• Food trucks with regional and international cuisine
• Clothing, accessories, decoration
• Information and activities from local clubs

Soest — Hanseatic City Between Hellweg and Sauerland

With around 50,000 inhabitants, Soest is the largest city in the district of the same name and, as a former Hanseatic city, holds historical significance far beyond its size. The Wirtschaft und Marketing Soest GmbH coordinates the city's tourism and cultural life — including the Altstadtfrühling as the season opener, the Allerheiligenkirmes in November (one of the largest funfair events in NRW), and numerous markets.