Gau-Algesheim Kerb and Alagastmarkt

Gau-Algesheim is a small wine town in western Rheinhessen, nestled between the vineyards of the Westerberg and the Nahe plain. The town boasts a history spanning over a thousand years and possesses a remarkable historical heritage with Schloss Ardeck, the Graulturm, and the baroque market square. It is on this market square that the Kerb and Alagastmarkt gather year after year.

The Kerb is the classic Kirchweihfest, dating back to the consecration of the parish church, which has evolved over generations into the town's communal Volksfest (folk festival). The local associations – fire brigade, sports club, carnival club, church communities – serve Rhenish-Hessian specialities, bratwurst, steaks, and a wide range of drinks at their stands. The stage offers a varied musical programme with cover bands, marching bands, and dialect musicians.

The Alagastmarkt is a special feature of Gau-Algesheim's tradition. As a historic farmers' market, it brings producers from the surrounding area into the town: farm shops, beekeepers, cheese producers, bakeries, butchers, and fruit and vegetable growers present their products at stalls around the market square. The market recalls Gau-Algesheim's centuries-old importance as a regional market centre between Mainz, Bingen, and Alzey.

The wineries of the Gau-Algesheim Wine Convention – an association of thirteen family businesses that has jointly marketed the town's wines since 1988 – serve their Rhenish-Hessian wines. Riesling, Silvaner, Weißburgunder, Grauburgunder, Spätburgunder, and Cuvées offer a wide spectrum for every taste.

The historic market square, with its baroque town hall, half-timbered facades, and views of the Graulturm, provides an atmospheric backdrop for the festival. The Kerb and Alagastmarkt are the largest and best-known Volksfest of the year in Gau-Algesheim, attracting visitors from all over Rheinhessen as well as from Mainz and the Rheingau.