Burgfest Hilpoltstein

Almost 100 Years of Living History

The Burgfest Hilpoltstein is one of the oldest and most atmospheric Volksfeste in Middle Franconia. Since 1927, the town in the Roth district, in the state of Bavaria, has celebrated the memory of Countess Palatine Dorothea Maria. In 1582, she married Count Palatine Ott-Heinrich of Palatinate-Neuburg and received Hilpoltstein along with the offices of Heideck and Allersberg as her widow's seat. Two years after her husband's death, the then 44-year-old widow moved into Hilpoltstein Castle in 1606 with her three daughters – an event that is reenacted annually to this day.

The Pageant and the Historical Procession

The centrepiece of the Burgfest is the grand pageant followed by the historical procession. On the festival Sunday, "an entire town" dons costumes from the early 17th century to worthily celebrate the magnificent entry of the Countess Palatine. In historical costumes, the participants march through the old town to the festival grounds, which were once laid out by the Countess herself. The procession is considered an emotional highlight and is accompanied by music bands and traditional costume groups.

Castle Play in the Castle Ruins

Since 1946, amateur actors have been performing the traditional castle play against the backdrop of the castle ruins. The 2026 production will be the comedy "The Odd Couple" by Neil Simon. The performances in front of the historical ruins are among the regular programme items of the festival week.

Flea Market, Tub Race, and Volksfest Atmosphere

Around the pageant, the Burgfest offers a diverse programme: A large flea market with around 40 stalls stretches across several streets, offering crafts, textiles, books, and food. On the festival Sunday, a craft market complements the offerings with handmade goods, jewellery, wood carvings, and regional specialities. Popular highlights include the traditional tub race, the Burgfest run with several distances, as well as an amusement park with rides and a well-attended beer tent. Thus, the Burgfest Hilpoltstein combines vibrant historical preservation with exuberant Volksfest atmosphere.