Fischbacher Dorffest

End of Summer in Fischbach-Camphausen

As August draws to a close, what is arguably the most important weekend of the year begins in Fischbach-Camphausen, a district of the municipality of Quierschied in the Saarbrücken Regional Association: the Fischbacher Dorffest. Since the 1980s, the former mining village — Camphausen was the site of a large hard coal mine for decades — has been celebrating the end of summer on the market square with everything a real Saarland village community has to offer.

Three Days of Music, Catering, and Community

The festival opens on Friday evening with the traditional tapping of the first keg by the mayor and a clergyman from the Catholic parish — a gesture that highlights the close relationship between church and club life in the Saarland. This is followed by live music on the main stage, bratwurst, Lyoner, Schwenker (grilled meat skewers) from the barbecue, beer from the tap, and apple spritzer for the kids. Saturday evening is usually dedicated to a major cover band, while Sunday, with its morning pint, ecumenical service, and family program, is the quieter day.

Mining Village with Cultural History

The current village festival character is an echo of the Saarland's mining history. Until 1990, Camphausen was one of the largest mining sites in the region; the miners' choir and the miners' band are an integral part of the festival program. The local Shanty-Chor Saarshipper, the Originalen Fischbacher Musikanten, and the Polizeimusikkorps Saarland have also shaped the program in recent years.

Family Day on Sunday

Sunday is family day: Ecumenical open-air service at 10 a.m., morning pint, children's show with magician Kailo, bouncy castles, and small amusement rides. As darkness falls, there is often a concluding musical firework display. Those looking for more excitement should come on Friday or Saturday evening for the live music.

Pure Saarland Village Culture

What makes the Fischbacher Dorffest special: It remains a real village festival. The catering is handled by local associations, and the proceeds go back into club activities; there is little sign of commercialization. Anyone who wants to experience the authentic Saarland — dialect, Schwenker, club culture — will feel right at home here.