Altstädter Kirmes Hachenburg

A Second Fair Season

In Hachenburg, it's a tradition for the Altstadt district to celebrate its own fair after the large city fair at the beginning of August. This "Nachkirmes" has evolved over more than a century into an independent event that defines the district's identity — supported by the traditional Kirmesgesellschaft 1900 Altstadt.

The Kirmesgesellschaft 1900 Altstadt

As the name suggests, the society dates back to 1900, giving it a history of over 125 years. Its members preserve the Altstädter Kirmes tradition with great voluntary commitment, combining customs with contemporary festival culture. The fair is a significant social meeting point for the Altstadt community.

Festival Grounds Behind the Gasthaus zum Stern

The fairgrounds are located on the traditional festival site behind the Gasthaus zum Stern. This location, away from the city centre, gives the event a protected, family-friendly character — quite different from the expansive Stadtkirmes that occupies the entire Hachenburg centre. The festival tent and surrounding area become a manageable, very personal festival venue.

Programme Structure

The programme follows the tried-and-tested Westerwald Kirmes tradition: opening on Saturday evening with the raising of the Kirmesbaum and a concert. In 2026, the cover band Fohr Five will perform — they also play at other Westerwald fairs. Sunday's programme includes Frühschoppen followed by the Kirmeszug. Monday concludes the festivities with a DJ evening starting at 4:00 PM.

Parallel to the Night of Choirs

A Hachenburg special: While the Altstädter Kirmes is taking place, Hachenburger KulturZeit (Hachenburg Culture Time) is organising the Nacht der Chöre (Night of Choirs) on the Alten Markt on Saturday, August 22nd. Those who wish to combine both events will experience a particularly varied weekend in the "Löwenstadt" (Lion City).