175th Arnstadt Wool Market
One of Thuringia's most famous folk festivals — since 1850
About Wool Market Arnstadt
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From Wool Market to Folk Festival
Arnstadt — the «oldest town in Thuringia» with its first documented mention in 704 AD — has also been home to one of Central Germany's most famous folk festivals since the mid-19th century. Founded in 1850 as a pure wool and natural products market, the Wool Market was initially a trading place for the region's sheep farmers and cloth makers. Over the decades, its character shifted: from a goods market to a fairground, from cloth trading to a folk festival.
175th Edition in 2026
With its 175th edition in 2026, the Wool Market celebrates a significant anniversary. The date is traditionally set: the last two weekends of June. In 2026, this corresponds to the period of June 20–28. The city of Arnstadt expects a more extensive program than usual for the anniversary edition, with special emphasis on the town's history and the tradition of the Wool Market.
Amusement Rides, Carousels, and Game Stalls
Classic amusement rides (Magic, Break Dancer, Ferris wheel), children's carousels, and game stalls gather on the Wool Market grounds in the city center. Showmen from all over Germany travel here. The gastronomic offer is broad: Bratwurst (Thuringia!), Lángos, Crêpes, fries, and of course, beer in festival tents.
Highlights: Keg Tapping, Fireworks, Family Day
Three program points are a firm tradition: the keg tapping ceremony at the opening — the mayor or patron taps the first keg. A grand fireworks display on the evening of the main weekend. A family day with reduced ride prices for children. Additionally, there are stage concerts and small show acts by the showmen.
Arnstadt — Town of Thuringia's Oldest History
Arnstadt is located in the Ilm district on the edge of the Thuringian Forest, southwest of Erfurt. The town was once the place of work for Johann Sebastian Bach (organist at the Bach Church) and, with its Renaissance buildings and the Neideck Castle complex, is a worthwhile tourist destination. The Wool Market fits seamlessly into the cultural profile — as an annual affirmation of rural down-to-earthness and urban tradition.
Wool Market Arnstadt — edition 2026
The 2026 Wool Market will traditionally occupy the last two weekends of June. Opening on Friday, June 20, 2026, with the classic keg tapping ceremony on the festival stage. The following week offers daily open amusement rides and stalls, with main visitor weekends in the middle (June 20–22) and at the end (June 26–28).
The 2026 program includes stage music, family days with reduced ride prices, and the traditional grand fireworks display at the end of the main weekend. For the 175th edition, the city of Arnstadt is hinting at additional programmatic accents — historical references to the cloth-making tradition, special exhibitions, and a festive parade.
Programme Wool Market Arnstadt 2026
Opening — Friday, June 20, 2026
- Official opening of the 175th edition
- Traditional keg tapping ceremony on the festival stage
- Honoring long-serving showmen
- First concerts in the evening
Main Program June 21–28, 2026
- Amusement rides daily (Magic, Break Dancer, Ferris wheel, carousels)
- Game stalls, shooting galleries, raffles
- Gastronomy: Bratwurst stands, festival tents, Crêpes, Lángos
- Stage music on weekends
Family Day
- Reduced ride prices for children
- Children's program on the festival stage
Fireworks
- Grand fireworks display on the evening of the main weekend
- Spectacular highlight of the 175th edition
Full program and daily highlights at arnstadt.de. Showman applications: Carsten Römhildt (03628 745 756), Thomas Zeiße (03628 745 719).
Highlights Wool Market Arnstadt 2026
- 175th Anniversary
- Traditional keg tapping ceremony
- Grand fireworks display
- Family Day with reduced prices
- Free admission
Prices Wool Market Arnstadt 2026
Free admission. Rides, food, and drinks according to showmen's tariffs. Family Day with reduced prices.
Practical information — Wool Market Arnstadt
Getting There
Arnstadt train station with regional connections to Erfurt–Saalfeld. By car via the A71 (exit Arnstadt-Süd or -Nord) and the B4. Parking around the city center.
Admission
Admission to the Wool Market is free. Rides, food, and drinks are subject to charge.
Tip
The Family Day offers reduced ride prices and is ideal for younger children. The fireworks traditionally attract particularly many visitors — arriving early is recommended.
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Travel to this festival
Reserva tu tren o autobús para llegar a Wool Market Arnstadt al mejor precio.
Sponsored link
Where it takes place Wool Market Arnstadt
Wollmarktgelände, Arnstadt
Wollmarktgelände, 99310 Arnstadt