40th Historical Market with Old Town Festival Lich

40 Years of Medieval Market

Lich is a small town in the Gießen district with a rich history: a former Burgmannenstadt (knights' town), seat of the Solms-Lich counts, a perfectly preserved half-timbered old town with remnants of town walls and narrow alleys. This very setting is what makes the Historical Market so special — for the 40th time in 2026. For two days in May, Lich transforms into an immersive medieval market with a classic market atmosphere, crafts, and club catering.

Around 45 Exhibitors

Approximately 45 craft and artisan stalls will set up their stands on the Market and Church Square: blacksmiths, potters, leatherworkers, basket weavers, felt makers, bow makers, candle dippers, beekeepers, mead brewers. Some come from Lich's partner communities at home and abroad. The program plays with historical references without getting lost in strict reenactment — it remains a Volksfest (popular festival) with a medieval flair.

Old Town Festival in Parallel

Intertwined with the medieval market is the Old Town Festival: live bands on stages, clubs with their own catering stands (bratwurst, mead, beer from Licher Brewery — Lich is the home of Licher Pilsner), small performances, and demonstrations. The official opening takes place on Saturday morning (11 AM) at the Town Hall.

Open Sunday in the Old Town

Traditionally, Lich combines the market with an open Sunday for shopping in the old town: shops open their doors, and the business association coordinates the program. It's one of the few weekends of the year when the entire center of Lich is bustling with activity.

Lich and the Region

Visitors arriving from Frankfurt, Marburg, or Gießen should combine their visit to the market with a tour of the Marienstiftskirche (St. Mary's Collegiate Church) or the castle — the former moated castle of the House of Solms-Lich is located directly by the market square. If you enjoy beer: the Licher Private Brewery offers tours.