Barbarossafest Obernkirchen

Town Festival with 845 Years of Tradition

When Frederick Barbarossa granted the town of Obernkirchen market rights in 1181, he didn't know that this privilege would still be the occasion for an annual town festival 845 years later. The Barbarossafest is an expression of the citizens' unbroken identification with their long history as a mining, forge well, and collegiate town. It is traditionally celebrated on the fourth weekend in June, provided no church holidays conflict.

Alternation with the Bürgerschützenfest

Obernkirchen has two major town festivals that alternate annually: the Barbarossafest and the Bürgerschützenfest (BSF). While the Marksmen's Festival focuses on the club structures of the citizens' marksmen, the Barbarossafest is the open town festival with a market, stage, and medieval program. The BSF took place in 2025; 2026 is a Barbarossafest year. Both festivals are organized by the city administration in cooperation with clubs and the church community.

Medieval Market and Camp

Medieval groups set up their tents on the market square in front of the collegiate church. Blacksmiths, bow makers, potters, and candle makers demonstrate their crafts. Camp life with costumes, food, and music transports visitors back to the Staufer era. There is a special knight program for children with mock fights, wooden swords, and coat of arms painting.

Concerts and Stage Program

Regional bands and choirs perform on the main stage. The spectrum ranges from medieval music with hurdy-gurdy and bagpipes to folk and cover rock, and dance music on Saturday evening. Admission is free. Performances are announced in advance via the city's website and local press.

Flea Market and Services

The traditional flea market on Saturday and Sunday extends throughout the entire old town. Hundreds of vendors from the region sell bric-a-brac, antiques, and homemade goods. On Sunday, the collegiate church hosts an ecumenical festival service that underscores the historical connection between the town and the church.