Gerner Dult

One of the Oldest Folk Festivals in Bavaria

The Gerner Dult in Eggenfelden is among the oldest folk festivals in Lower Bavaria. The first written evidence dates back to the 14th century (1348 in some sources, others mention 1330). It is considered the first major Dult of the year in Bavaria, thus opening the folk festival season in the Free State. The venue is the Eggenfelden district of Gern, around the Hofmark and the former castle.

Festival Tent, Rottgauhalle, Second Hall, and Hausschänken

The Gerner Dult has an unusual architectural anatomy: In addition to the classic festival tent with daily brass music, there is a 'beer temple' in the Rottgauhalle and another festival hall. However, its true character lies in the Hausschänken: During the Dult period, many residents of Gern are allowed to open their own courtyards, interiors, and gardens as taverns and serve beer. This dates back to the privilege of serving beer from the former Gern Castle Brewery; although the castle brewery no longer exists, the tradition is passionately maintained to this day.

Program: Brass Music, Traditional Costumes, Beer King

The traditional highlight is the grand parade at the opening with brewery horse-drawn carriages, traditional costume groups, and brass bands, followed by the ceremonial tapping of the first beer keg in the festival tent. Over eleven days, various brass bands and musicians play in the festival tent; smaller combos often provide entertainment in the Hausschänken. Special theme days (Family Day, Business Day, Senior Day) supplement the program. For children, there are amusement rides – Ferris wheel, bumper cars, carousels – and game stalls.

Culinary Delights – Franconian-Bavarian and More

Classic folk festival cuisine characterizes the offerings: Hendl (roast chicken), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Bratwurst, Knödel (dumplings), along with sweet specialties like candied almonds, Schmalzgebäck (fried dough pastries), and Lebkuchen (gingerbread).

Eggenfelden and the Gern District

Eggenfelden is a town in the Rottal-Inn district of Lower Bavaria. The district of Gern – with its baroque castle, the Hofmark, and the unique Hausschänken tradition – is the heart of the Dult and makes the event more than just a folk festival: it's a local festival with its own identity.