Hochheimer Markt

539 Years of Market Tradition

Few events in Germany can look back on a history as long as the Hochheimer Markt. It has been held annually since 1484 – originally as a cattle and general goods market, with which Hochheim, as a market town between Frankfurt and Mainz, expanded its importance in Rhine-Main trade. Over the centuries, it has become one of the ten largest autumn markets in Germany – with the unique combination of a funfair, general goods market, showmen, and (still existing) cattle market.

539th Edition 2026

The 539th edition runs from Friday, November 6th, to Tuesday, November 10th, 2026. The festival grounds cover seven hectares – making Hochheim one of the largest contiguous Volksfest sites in the Rhine-Main region. Around 500,000 visitors are expected over the five festival days.

500+ Stalls, 70 Food Stalls, 60 Drink Stalls

On the huge festival grounds, there are around 500 retail stalls, plus 70 food stalls and 60 drink stalls. The offerings range from traditional general goods (household items, fabrics, tools) to arts and crafts, regional products, and modern items. In addition, carousels, roller coasters, and Ferris wheels spin – especially the 45-meter Ferris wheel, from which you can see as far as Frankfurt on a clear day.

Medieval Market and Cattle Market

Two historical components make the Hochheimer Markt unique: A dedicated medieval market area with showmen in historical costumes, blacksmiths, jugglers, and medieval food, and the traditional cattle market, which continues the original market function to this day.

Hessian Wine Tasting

Hochheim am Main, as the gateway to the Rheingau, is a wine town – the wineries around Hochheim contribute significantly to the Rheingau Riesling selection. The Hessian wine tastings are a hallmark of the market, and there are also mulled wine and other hot drinks at the drink stalls.

Closing Fireworks on Tuesday Evening

The market always ends on the Tuesday after All Souls' Day – traditionally with a large closing fireworks display on Tuesday evening around 7:00 PM. Thousands gather on the festival grounds and surrounding hills to watch the show.