Bonifatiusfest Fulda

The Diocesan Festival of the Diocese of Fulda

The Bonifatiusfest is the annual diocesan festival of the Diocese of Fulda. The focus is on the tomb of Saint Boniface – the "Apostle of the Germans," who was murdered in Friesland in 754 and buried in Fulda. His tomb under the high altar of Fulda Cathedral is the spiritual center of the festival.

Boniface – Apostle of the Germans

Boniface (born around 672/675 in Wessex, baptized as Wynfreth) is considered a key missionary in the Christianization of Central Europe. He founded, among other things, the Fulda Monastery in 744 as the spiritual center of his mission. His death in Dokkum (now the Netherlands) in 754 made him a martyr. His tomb in Fulda has been a pilgrimage destination for over 1,200 years.

Pontifical Mass at 9:30 AM

The highlight is the solemn Pontifical Mass at 9:30 AM on the Cathedral Square – outdoors, as no church in the world can accommodate 6,000 faithful. Bishop Dr. Michael Gerber will officiate, accompanied by concelebrants (including Auxiliary Bishop Karlheinz Diez, Emeritus Bishop Heinz Josef Algermissen). The Cathedral Choir and brass ensembles will provide the musical accompaniment for the High Mass.

Star Pilgrimages from Across the Diocese

Even during the night and early morning, groups of pilgrims set off on foot from across the diocese:

• 4:45 AM from Giesel
• 6:00 AM from Oberrode
• 7:30 AM from Haimbach and Maberzell
• 8:15 AM from Neuenberg

In addition, there are cycling pilgrims and star groups from the Fulda region and the entire diocese. Many parish communities bring decorated flags and crosses; altar servers and musical groups are standard.

Family Day and Accompanying Program

After the Pontifical Mass, the Cathedral Square transforms into a Family Day: bouncy castle, archery, craft activities for children, food and drinks, special exhibitions in the Cathedral Museum (in 2026, on the occasion of the current anniversary). A guided Cathedral Tour at 1:00 PM concludes the day.