Bürgerfest Abensberg

The City Festival of the Hop Town Abensberg

Abensberg is a town in the Lower Bavarian district of Kelheim, located in the Hallertau Hop Region, the largest contiguous hop-growing area in the world. The Bürgerfest "historically alive and different" is one of the most important city festivals of the year, alongside the Gillamoos Volksfest, and is organized by the City of Abensberg.

Venues: Town Square, Aventinusplatz, and Castle Ruins

The festival spans several historical locations in the town center. The town square buzzes with open-air club atmosphere and concerts, Aventinusplatz invites visitors to linger with live music, and the castle ruins with its garden provide a atmospheric backdrop for the medieval program. Several beer and food stalls — including the Aventinus Taverne, the Feuerschützen Schänke, and the Salvator Schänke — cater to guests.

Medieval Spectacle and Fire Show

The historical program at the castle ruins is the centerpiece: Medieval groups bring the age of knights to life, displaying historical artifacts in their camps that can be viewed and touched. During the day, knights in impressive costumes engage in combat. After dark on Saturday evening, a fire show by the Omschberger Feierdeife takes place. Archery in the castle moat, face painting for children, and craft activities with local dignitaries round off the family program.

Music Program

Numerous music groups accompany the festival: at the castle ruins and Aventinusplatz, bands such as the Heislratzn, Not'nquetscha, Laaber ned, Grünthal, and Harp & Strings perform. At the town square, bands like Midlife Crisis Ltd. take the stage. The Sunday program includes performances by the Johann-Turmair-Realschule with over 60 young musicians, LakustikS, the Stadtkapelle, and GinPhonic. A church service with choir accompaniment and a subsequent Bavarian brunch is also part of the program.

Significance in the Lower Bavarian Festival Calendar

The Bürgerfest combines city history, Bavarian conviviality, and a vibrant stage program. With free admission and the unique backdrop of the castle ruins, it attracts visitors from Abensberg, the district of Kelheim, and the wider Hallertau region.