Jüterboger Fürstentag

Jüterbog — Brandenburg's Second Oldest City

Jüterbog is often called Brandenburg's second oldest city — its roots reach back to the early Slavic period. The old town with its city wall (one of the most complete in Brandenburg), three city gates, the Mönchenkirche, and the Nikolaikirche is among the most beautiful medieval town ensembles in the state. In 1517, the reformer Johann Tetzel sold the famous indulgence letters here — the trigger for Martin Luther's 95 Theses. This deeply rooted history shapes Jüterbog's self-worth.

The Historical Princely Diets (Fürstentage)

Between 1350 and 1624, around a hundred princely diets took place in Jüterbog — meetings between nobles, archbishops, and mayors from the regions of Brandenburg, Saxony, and Anhalt. At that time, the city belonged to the Archbishopric of Magdeburg and was therefore church property — a "neutral" location where princes could meet without the risk of being captured by rival rulers and held for ransom (a common practice at the time). This real historical function is the inspiration for today's festival.

Program — Feast, Procession, and Torchlight Parade

The Fürstentag traditionally takes place on the 2nd Saturday in September. In 2026, this falls on September 12th. It begins at 1 p.m. in the market square. At 1:30 p.m., the noble guests will enter the city through the Zinnaer Tor. Throughout the day, there will be Renaissance dances, magician performances, sword demonstrations, musket salutes, the princely feast at 6 p.m., and in the evening, city tours, a torchlight procession, fireworks, and DJ sets in the Klosterhof. Eleven private courtyards will open their gates exclusively for festival guests.

14th Edition 2026

The 14th edition of the Fürstentag will take place in 2026 — the festival was founded in 2013 and has established itself as a fixture in Brandenburg's event calendar. Organized by the Heimatverein Jüterboger Land e.V. with the support of regional dance groups and associations. Travel from Berlin in 1 hour by RB22 or RE7. Free admission to the entire town festival.