Herbstkirchweih & Oldtimertreffen Wilhermsdorf

Kirchweih with Oldtimer Flair

Wilhermsdorf is one of those Middle Franconian market towns where Kirchweih is not just an event, but a way of life. The Herbstkirchweih (Autumn Kirchweih) in mid-September is the larger of the two Kerwas in town and combines traditional elements—festival tent, fairground rides, market, farmers' market, flea market, and citizens' shooting competition—with an additional magnet: a large Oldtimertreffen (oldtimer meet-up), organized by the Oldtimerfreunde Zenngrund (Zenngrund Oldtimer Friends).

Market Square, Oldtimers, and Festival Tent

The action is concentrated on Wilhermsdorf's market square and the adjacent streets. Anyone entering the market square finds themselves amidst the festival tent, market stalls, and a rotating exhibition of historic vehicles—from old Beetles, DKWs, and NSUs to American cruisers from the 1950s. The Oldtimerfreunde Zenngrund present vehicles from their club as well as from all over Middle Franconia; some models are running, others are purely for display.

Wilhermsdorf in the Zenngrund

Wilhermsdorf is a market town in the district of Fürth, in the state of Bavaria, located in the Zenn valley—the region that bears the name Zenngrund between Cadolzburg and Markt Erlbach. The market town has around 5,000 inhabitants, is home to a historic market square complex, and belongs to a cultural landscape that often stands in the tourist shadow of Fürth and Nuremberg—a shame, because the Herbstkirchweih is exactly what an authentic Middle Franconian village festival can be.

What Makes the Kerwa Special

The Herbstkirchweih thrives on its mix. During the day, there's the citizens' shooting competition, flea market, and farmers' market, along with the aroma of bratwurst, gingerbread, and mulled wine. In the evening, the festival tent buzzes with brass band music, dancing, and Franconian beer garden atmosphere. The added appeal: those who don't fancy the festival tent can stroll among the vehicles of the Oldtimerfreunde—an unusual but successful combination.