Homberger Stadtfest „Apfelfest & flüssig“

Homberg (Ohm) – the town on the Ohm River

Homberg (Ohm) is a small town with around 7,700 inhabitants in the Vogelsbergkreis, located on the Ohm river. The historic old town with half-timbered houses, Ohm valley views, and castle hill is small but compact and perfectly suited for a lively town festival where the entire old town becomes the festival area.

„Apfelfest & flüssig“ – Apple wine at the center

The Apple Festival „& flüssig“ already carries its punchline in its name: the "liquid" apple is apple wine – a tradition that defines identity in Homberg. The Homberg Apple Queen is crowned every two years at the town festival, accompanied by an apple wine barrel tapping on Sunday.

2026 from October 18 to 21

The 2026 Market Week runs from Friday, October 18 to Wednesday, October 21:

• Friday 18.10.: Kick-off with a children's theatre play in the old town
• Saturday 19.10.: Town festival pre-program
• Sunday 20.10.: Apple Festival from 11 AM with apple wine barrel tapping and crowning of the Apple Queen
• Tuesday 20.10. approx. 7:00 PM: Hoisting of the market flag
• Wednesday 21.10. 8 AM–6 PM: 471st Kalter Markt with a market fair and showmen

The Kalte Markt – since 1565

The Kalter Markt is a Homberg tradition and one of the oldest markets in Hesse. First documented in 1565, it always takes place on the third Wednesday in October – in late autumn, hence "cold". In 2026, it will be celebrated for the 471st time. The market attracts traders with household goods, clothing, tools; plus a small amusement park with rides.

Town Festival as the Kick-off to the Market Week

The town festival on Sunday bundles the celebratory elements and is the late-night shopping Sunday – the shops in the city center are open. Stilt walkers, local dance groups like the Sing- und Volkstanzgruppe Rüddingshausen and the Ohmtalmusikanten provide the supporting program. An apple guessing contest (guessing the number of apples in a net at the town hall) is a tradition.