Autumn Federweißer festival of the Pfälzerwald-Verein Klingenmünster around the Karlsplatzhütte on the second Sunday in October
The Federweißenfest on Karlsplatz is one of the most beautiful autumn festivals on the Southern Wine Route. Karlsplatz is located about 250 meters above Klingenmünster, nestled in the mixed forest of the Wasgau between Landeck Castle to the north and Madenburg Castle to the south. The Karlsplatzhütte of the Pfälzerwald-Verein serves as the gastronomic center, supplemented by outdoor service and covered seating areas, so the festival can take place even in changeable October weather.
The culinary accompaniments to the young wine are at the center: still cloudy, slightly sparkling Federweißer from the surrounding wineries, along with classic Palatinate onion cake with bacon, caraway, and sour cream. Those who prefer something heartier can opt for Saumagen, Leberknödel, or Bratwurst from the charcoal grill. A homemade cake buffet and coffee specialties round off the offer, making Karlsplatz a full-day family outing for many guests.
The location at the junction of several marked Palatinate Forest hiking trails makes the Federweißenfest particularly popular with hiking enthusiasts. Popular ascents lead from Klingenmünster via the Schwedenweg, from Gleiszellen via the Heidenschuh, or as a longer tour from Landeck Castle and Madenburg Castle to Karlsplatz. The red and white markings of the Pfälzerwald-Verein reliably lead to the hut. Those arriving by car can reach Karlsplatz via a forest road from Klingenmünster (limited parking) – but most guests arrive on foot.
The Pfälzerwald-Verein Klingenmünster operates the Karlsplatzhütte on a voluntary basis and uses the festival's proceeds for the maintenance of the hut and the upkeep of the hiking trails around the Wasgau. The Federweißenfest is considered the most important event in the hut's year and brings together members, hiking friends, locals, and tourists for a relaxed day in the autumn sun.
The 2026 edition of the Federweißenfest falls on October 4th, the classic second Sunday in October. The hut team of the Pfälzerwald-Verein is preparing the Karlsplatzhütte with additional seating, outdoor service, and covered areas to provide good hospitality to guests, even on cooler autumn evenings. In the midday area, Palatinate classics provide sustenance, in the afternoon the offer switches to cake and coffee, while the Federweißer service remains open continuously.
Hikers often use the day for a round trip: popular ascents are from Klingenmünster via the Schwedenweg or from Gleiszellen-Gleishorbach via the Heidenschuh. Those planning a longer tour can combine the Karlsplatzhütte with the nearby Landeck and Madenburg castles for a classic Wasgau circular hike.
The exact program for 2026 will be published by the organizer in spring/summer. The structure follows the proven cornerstones of previous years:
On foot: From Klingenmünster (Friedhof or town center parking lot), follow the signs towards Karlsplatz; the hike takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on the route. Other ascents start in Gleiszellen-Gleishorbach and Pleisweiler-Oberhofen.
By car: Via the forest road from Klingenmünster (follow signs). Parking at Karlsplatz is very limited – on festival days, arriving on foot or by bike is recommended.
The Federweißenfest takes place annually on the second Sunday in October. Catering is usually from around 11 a.m. until late afternoon.
The festival is family-friendly, dogs are welcome on a leash. Sturdy footwear is recommended as Karlsplatz is located in the forest. Free admission.
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