Eppelein Festival Burgthann
Folk theatre about the Franconian Robin Hood at Burg Burgthann
About Eppelein Festival
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Eppelein von Gailingen – the Franconian Robin Hood
Eppelein von Gailingen (c. 1320–1381) is one of the most famous legendary figures in Franconia: a robber knight to whom popular tradition attributes noble traits – he takes from the rich and gives to the poor, a "Franconian Robin Hood". His legendary leap over the moats of Nuremberg Castle is a firm part of Franconian legends.
The Folk Play
The Eppelein Festival presents the folk play by Werner Müller in 17 scenes, performed in the tradition of open-air theatre. In addition to his raids and his opposition to the imperial city of Nuremberg, the central focus is the love story between Eppelein and a patrician's daughter. It is a classic folk theatre: humorous, dramatic, with a large ensemble.
Burg Burgthann as a Stage
The performances take place at Burg Burgthann in the Nuremberg district – a historic castle complex whose walls and courtyards provide the ideal backdrop for the play. The festival is supported by around 70 amateur actors from Burgthann and the surrounding area, as well as technical, costume, and organisational support from local clubs.
A Festival Every Three Years
The Eppelein Festival only takes place approximately every three years – making each performance season an event for the region. In 2026, the traditional folk play returns to the castle after a multi-year break, opened by a concert from the Neues Burgthanner Streichensemble.
Eppelein Festival — edition 2026
2026 Performance Season
After a multi-year break, the folk play about Eppelein von Gailingen returns to Burg Burgthann in 2026: nine performances over three July weekends, preceded by an opening concert.
Programme Eppelein Festival 2026
Opening Concert
- Wednesday, July 5, 2026 — 7:30 PM: Neues Burgthanner Streichensemble
Performances "Eppelein von Gailingen"
- Friday, July 10 — 8:00 PM (Premiere)
- Saturday, July 11 — 8:00 PM
- Sunday, July 12 — 5:00 PM
- Friday, July 17 — 8:00 PM
- Saturday, July 18 — 8:00 PM
- Sunday, July 19 — 5:00 PM
- Friday, July 24 — 8:00 PM
- Saturday, July 25 — 8:00 PM
- Sunday, July 26 — 5:00 PM
Folk play in 17 scenes by Werner Müller, around 70 amateur actors, performed at Burg Burgthann. Tickets and details at eppelein-festspiele.de.
Highlights Eppelein Festival 2026
- Premiere on July 10, nine performances over three weekends
- Folk play about the Franconian Robin Hood Eppelein von Gailingen
- Around 70 amateur actors at Burg Burgthann
- Opening concert by the Neues Burgthanner Streichensemble (July 5)
- Takes place only every three years
Prices Eppelein Festival 2026
Tickets for performances and the opening concert are available in advance from the Eppelein Festival. Current prices and seating categories at eppelein-festspiele.de.
Practical information — Eppelein Festival
Getting There
Burgthann is located in the Nürnberger Land district, easily accessible by train (S-Bahn line Nuremberg–Neumarkt, Burgthann station) and via the A3 motorway (Altdorf/Burgthann exit). The castle is within walking distance of the train station.
Tickets
Tickets for the performances and the opening concert are available in advance from the Eppelein Festival. The performances take place in (almost) all weather conditions; please wear weather-appropriate clothing.
Tip
Premiere and weekend performances are usually booked up quickly – secure your tickets in good time. The opening concert on July 5th sets the mood for the performance season.
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Travel to this festival
Reserva tu tren o autobús para llegar a Eppelein Festival al mejor precio.
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Where it takes place Eppelein Festival
Burg Burgthann
Burg Burgthann, 90559 Burgthann