Backofenfest Laufamholz

A Neighbourhood Festival with History

In the Nuremberg district of Laufamholz, on the eastern outskirts between the Pegnitz river and the Sebalder Reichswald forest, the Vorstadtverein Nürnberg-Laufamholz has operated a historic wood-fired bakehouse for decades. What began in 1997 as a revival of an old village baking tradition is now, twice a year, the occasion for one of the most popular neighbourhood festivals in eastern Nuremberg. The Backofenfest – once in early summer, once in autumn during harvest time – is a meeting point for residents, families, clubs, and schools from Laufamholz, Mögeldorf, Erlenstegen, and Zerzabelshof.

Wood-fired Oven and 185 Loaves of Bread

The highlight is the communal bread baking in the wood-fired oven on Seeweiherweg: in three consecutive baking cycles, around 185 loaves of bread are produced, along with fresh liver sausage directly from the neighbourhood butcher. In spring, herb flatbreads with onions and bacon are also baked, and in autumn, the traditional Zwiebelkuchen mit Federweißer (onion cake with new wine). The bread is served with regional toppings: Obatzda, ham, lard – pure Franconian snacks. For hunger pangs, there are also homemade cakes from local kindergartens and schools, the proceeds of which directly benefit the institutions.

Commitment and Tradition

The festival is organised on a voluntary basis by the Vorstadtverein, led by Elke Graf. It combines culinary craftsmanship – heating the wood-fired oven, preparing the doughs, sliding the loaves into the embers – with neighbourly gatherings and financial support for local educational institutions. Thus, the Backofenfest is much more than a bread tasting: it is a living model of village quality of life in the heart of Bavaria's second-largest city.

Two Dates Per Year

The festival takes place twice a year: on June 14 and October 4, 2026. Both dates attract visitors from all over eastern Nuremberg; the Sebalder Reichswald forest and the Pegnitz meadows offer a relaxing hiking area before and after visiting the festival. Those seeking authentic Franconian neighbourhood life without the tourist bustle of Nuremberg's Old Town will find their place here.