Angelbachtaler Kerwe

Angelbachtaler Kerwe — Tradition for Generations

The Kerwe (Kurpfälzisch for "Kirchweih") is one of the most important folk festivals in the Northern Baden and Kurpfalz region. It dates back to the consecration of the local church and has been celebrated for centuries as a two-day, often three-day, village festival. In Angelbachtal, the Kerwe takes place annually in mid-October — in 2026 on October 17 and 18. The festival is integrated into the municipality's event calendar, which maintains three central annual occasions with its Kerwe, its Whitsun market, and the Highland Games.

Ecumenical Kerwe Service

The spiritual element of the Kerwe is the ecumenical Kerwe service on Sunday, October 18, 2026. Protestant and Catholic parishes celebrate together — a tradition established in Southwest German folk piety that keeps the original Kirchweih meaning of the festival alive. Afterwards, the actual festival begins with a ceremonial opening or reception.

Club Catering and Program

Local clubs set up their catering stands on the festival grounds in the town center and in surrounding areas: Music Association, Sports Club, Fire Department, Red Cross, Kindergarten Support Association, Cultural Initiatives. Swabian and Kurpfälzisch specialties dominate the culinary offerings — Kerwe rolls, bratwurst, head cheese, homemade cakes. Local winemakers from the nearby Kraichgau region offer their wines. Bands and music associations play on stage on Saturday evening. Sunday afternoon is family-oriented with a children's carousel and game stations.

Angelbachtal — Twin Municipality in Northern Kraichgau

Angelbachtal (around 5,000 inhabitants, Rhein-Neckar district, AGS 08226) was formed in 1972 by the merger of the previously independent municipalities of Eichtersheim and Michelfeld. The twin municipality is located in the northern Kraichgau, in a scenically attractive hilly landscape between Sinsheim and Bruchsal. Angelbachtal is also known for its Highland Games — a Scottish sports event with cabin concepts — which take place every spring. The Kerwe complements this modern accent with old Baden customs and traditions.