Herbstfest Kloster Veßra

Three Days of Autumn Market in a Historic Monastery Complex

The Hennebergisches Museum Kloster Veßra is one of the most important architectural and cultural monuments in Southern Thuringia — a former Premonstratensian monastery from the 12th century, which today is an open-air museum and cultural-historical collection. When the Herbstfest (Autumn Festival) arrives in September, the historic complex transforms into a special festival ground, bringing together tradition and trends, nature and enjoyment, crafts and lifestyle.

Three Days, from 10 am to 6 pm

In 2026, the festival runs from September 18th to 20th (Friday to Sunday), daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Over the three days, around a hundred exhibitors will showcase their goods in the monastery buildings, courtyards, and meadows around the complex.

Plants, Home Decor, Fashion, Jewelry

The product range is clearly curated: seasonal plants (roses, perennials, herbs) for the autumn garden, home accessories and artisanal autumn and winter gifts, furniture from manufactory production, designer fashion, jewelry, and accessories from goldsmiths and designers. The standard distinguishes the festival from classic folk autumn markets: it is aimed at “garden lovers, connoisseurs, families, and the curious” and positions itself as a “stylish festival.”

Whisky Tasting and Regional Cuisine

Culinary delights blend home and the world: regionally, there's Thuringian bratwurst, autumn specialties from the Henneberg region, and meat and sausage products from regional producers. Alongside these, you'll find international delicacies and a special feature — whisky tastings with selected single malts. An unusual mix that makes the festival more than just a typical autumn market.

Visitors from Thuringia, Franconia, and Hesse

The festival has established a regional reach: visitors come from all over Thuringia, from neighboring Franconia (just an hour's drive from Schweinfurt via the A71) and northern Hesse. The monastery complex offers enough space for several thousand visitors per day.

Getting There and Logistics

Kloster Veßra is located in the Hildburghausen district, directly on the A71 (Erfurt — Schweinfurt). It is also easily accessible by public transport: shuttle buses run from Themar train station to the monastery grounds. A welcome solution for travel: many exhibitors set up their stands on Thursday, allowing the festival to start punctually at 10 am on Friday.