72nd Bergstraße Wine Market Heppenheim

Hesse's northernmost wine region presents itself

The Hessische Bergstraße is one of Germany's smallest but most renowned wine-growing regions. On a narrow strip along the western edge of the Odenwald forest, from the south of Frankfurt to just before Heidelberg, Riesling and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) thrive in a surprisingly mild climate, which has earned it a nickname for its early almond blossoms: "Germany's Spring Garden." The Bergstraße Wine Market in Heppenheim is the calling card of this wine region.

Heppenheim — Half-timbered architecture and wine culture

The old town of Heppenheim, with its striking Großer Markt (Great Market Square), the baroque town hall, the Kurmainzer Amtshof, and its narrow half-timbered alleys, is one of the most beautiful medieval settings in southern Hesse. The market square, watched over by St. Peter's Church, becomes a festival arena during the wine market: four stages are set up, and wine stands from Bergstraße vintners line the old town streets.

72nd edition since 1955

First held in 1955, the Bergstraße Wine Market is now one of southern Hesse's most important summer festivals, attracting around 80,000 visitors annually. The concept is clear: wine from the region in all its diversity – from simple table wines to award-winning top vintages – complemented by music, regional cuisine, and traditional costume performances.

Four stages, ten days of music

Over the ten festival days, bands perform a varied program on four stages: local cover bands, Schlager music, rock classics, German-language pop, and occasionally jazz or blues. The concept aims for a multi-generational audience – from teenagers to seniors. Admission to all stages is free.

The Bergstraße Wine Queen

A special feature shaping the 2026 festival: the crowning of the Bergstraße Wine Queen takes place only in even-numbered years. 2026 is such a year. The new representative of the Bergstraße vintners will be crowned in a festive ceremony at the beginning of the market and will subsequently represent the wine region at events throughout the country.

Wine Tasting Stand and Wine Hall

For systematic tasting, the Winzerzelt (Vintners' Tent) is the place to be – public wine tastings led by the wineries can be booked here. In the Weinhalle (Wine Hall), the award-winning wines from the annual Bergstraße Wine Competition are available for tasting. This focus on serious wine culture distinguishes the Bergstraße Wine Market from purely gastronomically oriented Volksfeste (public festivals).