Dorf- und Kinderfest (Kirmes) Schwarzrheindorf / Vilich-Rheindorf

Schwarzrheindorf and Vilich-Rheindorf — Bonn-Beuel

Schwarzrheindorf and Vilich-Rheindorf are two traditional districts on the northern edge of Bonn's Beuel district, directly on the right bank of the Rhine between Bonn and Cologne. The two places share a history — historically they were farming villages, today they are residential areas with an active club structure and a village identity within the large city of Bonn. They maintain their club life with Karneval, Sankt Martin, Advent celebrations — and above all, the annual Dorf- und Kinderfest.

Schwarzrheindorf Double Church — Historic Backdrop

One of Germany's most important Romanesque churches is located in the middle of Schwarzrheindorf: the Double Church of St. Maria and St. Clemens, consecrated in 1151, with its unique Romanesque frescoes — a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status. This church forms the cultural identity of Schwarzrheindorf and is a sight of international importance. During the Dorf- und Kinderfest, stalls and stages are set up near the church — the festival and Romanesque architecture are in unusually close contact.

Organizers — Three Clubs, One Festival

The festival is jointly organized by three clubs: the Bürgerverein Schwarzrheindorf and Vilich-Rheindorf as the umbrella organization, the traditional Männerreih (a typically Rhenish form of men's association for preserving customs), and the Junggesellenverein Gemütlichkeit — the bachelor's club responsible primarily for the participation of young men in Karneval and district festivals. This constellation of three clubs is typical for Rhenish district festivals and ensures intergenerational participation.

Festival Program — Four Days of Kirmes

The festival spans four days. Friday evening: ceremonial barrel tapping by the festival commission as the official kickoff. Saturday: main festival day with music, bands, tombola, children's program during the day, party night in the festival tent. Sunday: Family Day with a high mass in the morning, Frühschoppen, children's carousels, a more relaxed pace. Monday: final festival day with a closing celebration.

Children's Program — The Namer

The designation "Kinderfest" (Children's Festival) is the program: a significant part of the weekend is dedicated to the family and children's audience. Carousels, stalls with sweets and trinkets, games, and hands-on activities are offered primarily on Saturday and Sunday during the day. This distinguishes the festival from purely adult-oriented Schützenfeste — it is explicitly designed as a festival for all generations.

Location and Arrival

Schwarzrheindorf and Vilich-Rheindorf are located in Bonn-Beuel, on the northern edge of the district, directly on the right bank of the Rhine. By train: Stadtbahn lines 64 or 65 from Bonn Hbf to Beuel, then bus line 537 or 540. By car: A 59 exit Beuel-Nord. Parking in residential streets is scarce during the festival weekend — public transport is recommended. The Schwarzrheindorf Double Church is also worth a visit outside of the festival.