Bürgerfest Auerbach in der Oberpfalz

Town Festival in the Royal Town of the Upper Palatinate

The Bürgerfest Auerbach in der Oberpfalz is the most important civic event of the Upper Palatinate town of Auerbach, located on the eastern edge of the Franconian Switzerland in the Amberg-Sulzbach district. Auerbach, with its approximately 9,000 inhabitants, has a remarkably well-preserved old town – historically one of the most important royal towns in the region, which is still evident today in the magnificent burgher houses and the medieval town wall ring.

Two Days Around the Market Square

The Bürgerfest traditionally lasts two days – usually the first weekend in July – and is concentrated on the central market square and the adjacent streets. The historic houses form the natural festival backdrop, in front of which the clubs set up their stalls. A central stage is set up on the market square, along with smaller activity areas in the side alleys.

Knabenkapelle as a Festival Symbol

The Knabenkapelle Auerbach, a traditional musical ensemble of the town, plays a central role and musically shapes the festival. On Sunday morning at 10:30 AM, the main orchestra of the Knabenkapelle plays for the morning pint, followed by the youth orchestra at 2:30 PM. The Knabenkapelle is an institution that has grown over decades and is considered a flagship of Auerbach's musical culture.

Club Life and Gastronomy

The Auerbach clubs – sports clubs, traditional costume groups, fire brigade, marksmen, carnival societies, local history society, parish youth – each run their own stalls with regional specialties: Upper Palatinate bratwurst, dumplings, roast pork, homemade cakes, Franconian beer (primarily from local breweries such as Brauerei Hofmann Pretzfeld and Brauerei Pirathon), coffee, and soft drinks. The proceeds help to finance the club's work throughout the year.

A Town in Transition

Auerbach is both tradition and modernity: historical heritage as a former royal administrative town, and at the same time home to important industrial companies and educational institutions. The Bürgerfest provides the annual occasion for generations, clubs, and professional fields to meet in the old town – a classic format of urban civic community.