Burg- und Weiherfest Illingen
Traditional civic festival in the Burgpark of Burg Kerpen — since 1974
About Burg- und Weiherfest
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Burg Kerpen — A Historic Festival Backdrop
Burg Kerpen in Illingen is a late medieval hilltop castle, of which wall remnants, towers, and a picturesque Burgpark with a pond (Weiher) are preserved today. The site is one of the most scenically attractive places in the Neunkirchen district and has been the venue for the Burg- und Weiherfest annually since 1974.
52 Years of Tradition
What began in 1974 as a small summer festival by the local history association has become one of the most established Volksfeste (traditional folk festivals) in northern Saarland. The event is organized by the Municipality of Illingen together with the Working Group Burg- und Weiherfest, where numerous Illingen clubs pool their efforts.
Multiple Stages, Diverse Music Program
The Burgpark features several stages: the main stage by the pond with rock, pop, and cover bands, the side stage in the upper castle courtyard with DJ sets and acoustic acts, plus hands-on activities for children. A special highlight is the performance by cult DJs Mäggi and Ameise, who have been regulars on the festival stage for years.
Club Festival with Family Program
The culinary offerings are provided by the Illingen clubs: sports clubs, carnival associations, marksmen, the fire brigade, and the local history association. Specialties include Schwenkbraten (marinated pork neck grilled over wood), Lyoner sausage, fries, and of course, beer. A varied children's program with a bouncy castle, craft stations, and interactive activities runs concurrently over all three days.
Children's Flea Market on Sunday
A charming tradition is the children's flea market on Sunday morning: children sell outgrown toys and books, keeping the proceeds themselves. A small educational gesture that fits the festival's character.
“Tradition Meets Joy of Life”
The official motto of the festival — “Tradition trifft Lebensfreude” (Tradition Meets Joy of Life) — aptly describes its spirit: the Burgpark is venerable, the festival atmosphere is relaxed, and the program is family-friendly. Anyone looking for a classic Saarland Volksfest without mass commercialism will feel right at home here.
Burg- und Weiherfest — edition 2026
The Municipality of Illingen and the Burg- und Weiherfest Working Group confirm the 52nd edition for the weekend of July 3rd to 5th, 2026. As in previous years, the Burgpark around the Kerpen castle ruins will become a festival mile over three days.
Cover bands, DJs, and regional acts will perform on multiple stages. Cult DJs Mäggi and Ameise are expected to be part of the regular program. Club stands will offer Saarland specialties, and the children's area includes a bouncy castle, craft stations, and the traditional children's flea market on Sunday.
Programme Burg- und Weiherfest 2026
Friday, July 3, 2026 — Opening
- 6:00 PM — Opening of the Burgpark and club stands
- 7:00 PM — Keg Tapping by the Mayor by the pond
- 8:00 PM — Opening concert on the main stage
- 10:00 PM — DJ Set
Saturday, July 4, 2026 — Main Evening
- 11:00 AM — Festival opens with catering stands
- 2:00 PM — Family afternoon with bouncy castle and children's program
- 5:00 PM — Acoustic stage in the upper castle courtyard
- 7:00 PM — Main Concert on the stage by the pond
- 10:00 PM — DJ Set with Mäggi & Ameise (Cult DJs)
Sunday, July 5, 2026 — Family Day
- 9:00 AM — Children's Flea Market in the upper castle courtyard (registration required)
- 11:00 AM — Ecumenical morning pint with brass music
- 12:00 PM — Club lunch
- 2:00 PM — Family afternoon with craft activities
- 5:00 PM — Acoustic Set
- 7:00 PM — Live Band
- 10:00 PM — Festival ends
Detailed band program will be announced on illingen.de in May/June 2026.
Highlights Burg- und Weiherfest 2026
- Idyllic Burgpark around the ruins of Burg Kerpen
- Multiple stages with live music and DJ sets
- Cult DJs Mäggi and Ameise as regular guests
- Children's flea market on Sunday morning
- Club festival with Saarland specialties
Prices Burg- und Weiherfest 2026
Free admission. Food and drinks at usual club prices. Schwenkbraten approx. €5–7, beer €3.
Practical information — Burg- und Weiherfest
Getting There
Illingen is located in the Neunkirchen district, about 30 km northeast of Saarbrücken. By car via the A8 (exit Illingen/Wemmetsweiler). By public transport from Saarbrücken Hauptbahnhof with RB73 to Illingen (approx. 25 min); the Burgpark is a 15-minute walk from the station.
Admission
Free admission on all three days. Food and drinks from the clubs at usual club prices.
Accommodation
Hotels in Illingen, Neunkirchen, St. Wendel, and at Bostalsee.
Tip
Want to run a stall at the children's flea market on Sunday? Advance registration with the Municipality of Illingen is required.
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Travel to this festival
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Where it takes place Burg- und Weiherfest
Burgpark rund um Burg Kerpen
Burgpark Burg Kerpen, 66557 Illingen