Barthelmarkt Manching-Oberstimm

From Roman Horse Market to Bavarian Grand Volksfest

The Barthelmarkt in Oberstimm, a district of the market town of Manching in the Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm district, is more than just a Volksfest – it is living Upper Bavarian history. Its roots go back to the Roman vicus, which maintained a cattle market in this area in the 1st century BC. The market is first mentioned in documents in 1354. The name derives from St. Bartholomew, the patron saint of the local parish church. Today, the Barthelmarkt attracts around 250,000 visitors from all over Bavaria and beyond each year.

Four Beer Tents and a Weißbiergarten

The festival grounds in Oberstimm are dominated by the Herrnbräu-Festzelt, the Ingobräu-Festzelt, the Toerring-Zelt, and the Schneider-Festzelt; in addition, there is a separate Weißbiergarten. Each tent has its own regular clientele, its own program, and its own special atmosphere – from the family-friendly Volksfest classic to the exuberant party night for the younger generation. Bavarian music bands, dance bands, and mood musicians fill the wooden benches to capacity every evening.

Roßmarkt, Horse Races, and Parade

The traditional Roßmarkt on Monday morning, starting at 6 am, is a Bavarian specialty that distinguishes the Barthelmarkt from many other Volksfests. Horse dealers, breeders, and farmers bring horses and foals to Oberstimm for inspection and sale. On Saturday, the big horse races take place on a specially constructed racetrack – with free admission. The highlight on Saturday afternoon is the parade of traditional costume and folk groups, with assembly at 1:45 pm.

Barthelmarkt Queen and Firework Display

Fixed program points include the election of the Barthelmarkt Queen, who represents the festival for the following twelve months. The crowning visual finale on Sunday evening is a large firework display over the festival grounds, traditionally set off around 9 pm. It attracts additional onlookers from the surrounding area to the Ilm river.

Family Program and Amusement Rides

In addition to the festival tents, a classic Volksfest fairground with carousels, a swing boat, a roller coaster, bumper cars, shooting galleries, and sweet stalls beckons. On Monday afternoon between 3 pm and 6 pm, many showmen offer a family afternoon with reduced prices for children. Sunday begins with a solemn church service in the festival tent at 9 am, followed by a senior citizens' breakfast.