Castle and Craftsmen Market Museumsdorf Altwindeck

27 Years of Medieval Times in the Windeck Countryside

When the Museumsdorf Altwindeck opens its gates on October 3rd, you literally travel through the centuries: On the grounds at Im Thal 17 in Windeck-Altwindeck, nestled against the mountain backdrop of the Siegtal valley, the 27th Castle and Craftsmen Market in 2026 presents the spectrum of medieval life — artisans at the forge, potters at the wheel, bakers at the wood-fired oven, felt makers, weavers, and leather workers.

Jugglers, Music, and Acrobats

The market atmosphere is enhanced by a full day of stage performances: Medieval music groups (hurdy-gurdy, shawm, drums), juggler acts with acrobatics, fire shows, and spontaneous stand-up performances. For children, there are hands-on activities, medieval games, and an archery range.

Program from Morning to Sunset

• 11:00 AM — Market opening with ceremony
• Morning — Craft demonstrations, market visit
• Midday — First juggler show, medieval food
• Afternoon — Music performances and stage program
• 6:00 PM — Market ends

German Unity Day as a Family Day

The market is deliberately held on the public holiday October 3rd — as a family excursion destination during the extended weekend. The concept has been successful for over two decades: €5 admission for adults, children under 14 free, and a free shuttle bus from Schladern station (RE 9 and S 12 from Cologne/Bonn) — making the market easily accessible even without a car.

Windeck — the Countryside at the Entrance to the Middle Rhine

Windeck is located in the Rhein-Sieg-Kreis district, in the very south of North Rhine-Westphalia, right on the border with Rhineland-Palatinate and at the entrance to the Siegtal valley. The Museumsdorf Altwindeck is one of the region's most important open-air museums, preserving the architecture and way of life of the Oberberg region's agriculture. The Castle and Craftsmen Market is the museum village's largest and most visible event.