Bergaer Kirmes / Stadtfest Berga 2026

From Kirchweih to Town Festival

The Bergaer Kirmes is the most important festival in the small Elstertal town of Berga/Elster in the East Thuringian district of Greiz. Originally a Kirchweih festival, it has grown over decades into the largest town festival in the region, attracting guests from all over the Elstertal. The organizer is the Brauchtums- und Kirmesverein Berga/Elster e. V. — a citizens' initiative with numerous volunteers. In 2026, the Kirmes runs from September 11th/12th/13th.

Klubhaus as Festival Center

The venue is the Klubhaus Berga — the town's central hall and festival grounds — as well as the surrounding squares and streets. The festival tent, stage, and food stalls are concentrated here; the town expands the program with activities along the main street. Live bands, DJs, brass bands, and dance evenings ensure a continuous atmosphere — the Bergaer Kirmes has earned a reputation in the region as a festive town festival.

Festival Parade with Torchlight Procession

A characteristic element is the Festival Parade with Torchlight Procession: On Friday evening, the Kirmes society, clubs, music bands, and festively dressed citizens march through the town with torches to the Klubhaus. The torchlight procession has been part of the Bergaer Kirmes tradition for generations and is one of the most emotionally charged moments of the festival. On Saturday, the larger daytime festival parade follows with floats, clubs, and the Berga Kirmes society in uniform.

Berga/Elster in the District of Greiz

The small town of Berga/Elster lies in the valley of the White Elster river in the district of Greiz (state of Thuringia). With just under 2,500 inhabitants, it is a typical small Elstertal town; the town is accessible via the federal road B92 and the Gera-Plauen railway line. The Bergaer Carneval Verein and the Kirmesverein shape the club life — the Kirmes is the highlight of the annual program.