Burgfest zu Lichtenberg

A Medieval Festival at a Real Castle

The Burgfest zu Lichtenberg takes place at the historic Lichtenberg Castle — a medieval hilltop castle in the Hof district, located high above the Höllental in the Upper Franconian Frankenwald. This authentic setting makes the difference: unlike many medieval festivals held in modern event halls or on meadows, the Burgfest zu Lichtenberg takes place in a historically documented castle complex. The Burgfreunde Lichtenberg e.V. have been organizing the event for years with great voluntary commitment.

Six Medieval Music Groups

The musical backbone of the festival in 2026 will be six specialized medieval music groups:

• Arcus — Hurdy-gurdy, bagpipes, shawm
• Nervus Ursis — energetic medieval band with bagpipes
• Fabula Aetatis — historical sounds and medieval dance music
• Irregang — traditional and fantastic medieval music
• Lyra Musica — fine medieval string and vocal music

Jugglers, Knights, and Curiosities

In addition to music, jugglers and knights will entertain at the castle complex. A camel ride, a flea circus, and a carousel from historical times complement the family program. Those who come with children will find plenty to do away from the musical concerts.

Mead, Honey Wine, and Medieval Gastronomy

The catering follows the medieval concept: Met (mead), hydromel, medieval dishes (suckling pig, bread, cheese, spiced doughnuts), beer, and wine. The stalls of the gastronomy and the craftsmen form a dense medieval market spread across the castle meadows.

Lichtenberg Castle and the Höllental

Lichtenberg Castle is a medieval hilltop castle in the Hof district, built in the 14th century. Today it is a ruin with preserved wall sections and is maintained by the Burgfreunde Lichtenberg e.V. association for monument preservation. The castle overlooks the Höllental — one of Upper Franconia's most spectacular rocky valleys, through which the Selbitz river flows on its way to the Saale valley. Visitors to the castle festival can combine their day with a hike in the Höllental.

Conscious Costume Policy

Those who come in medieval attire pay only €5 instead of €10 admission — a deliberate incentive to contribute to the medieval atmosphere through the audience. Many visitors on the castle grounds are in costume, which enhances the immersive effect of the festival.