Hesse's oldest market — 471st edition in the Vogelsberg district
The Kalter Markt in Homberg (Ohm) is one of the oldest continuously held markets in Hesse. The 471st edition in 2026 traces its tradition back to the 16th century — a lineage that few other market events in central Hesse can claim. The market traditionally takes place in late autumn, when the days are shorter and the nights are already noticeably cool — hence the name Kalter Markt (Cold Market).
Around 130 stalls line Frankfurter Straße and the city center. The assortment is typical for a central Hessian market: household goods, tools, textiles, leather goods, jewelry, spices, plants, sweets, regional specialties, and unique crafts. Those looking here will find a little treasure trove between pragmatism and nostalgia — from oilcloth in their favorite color to felt slippers from the Vogelsberg.
A market without its food stalls wouldn't be a market: bratwurst from a charcoal grill, fried fish, fresh pasta, crêpes, candied almonds, chocolate-covered fruit — the aroma wafts through Frankfurter Straße. Local clubs also operate stalls with cakes and mulled wine, depending on the weather.
Homberg (Ohm) is located in the Vogelsberg district, about 30 kilometers northwest of Alsfeld, at the transition from the Vogelsberg to the Wetterau. The ruins of Homberg Castle tower over the town; in the old town, half-timbered houses reflect the medieval urban structure. The Kalter Markt is THE event of the year, drawing the entire region to Homberg.
For those who want to extend their visit: On the Sunday before the Kalter Markt, a town festival themed "Apple Festival & Liquid" takes place around Homberg, with its own application process for stalls and clubs. Extending your visit creates a long market weekend — from the Apple Festival and the Kalter Markt Night (traditional opening ceremony on the eve) to the actual market day.
One-day market. Opening at 8 a.m., closing at 6 p.m. As every year, the city center will be traffic-calmed, and stalls will be set up in the early morning hours.
Stall registration in advance via the Homberg (Ohm) city administration. Those wishing to participate in the "Apple Festival & Liquid" on the preceding Sunday must apply separately.
Free admission. Purchases and food on site.
By car: A5 exit Reiskirchen or Homberg/Ohm, then B49 to Homberg. Parking around the city center quickly becomes scarce on market days — arriving early is worthwhile. By train: Mücke station, then bus connection.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, continuously from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Free.
If you want to experience the whole market, plan for two to three hours — and a few warm layers. The Kalter Markt is called that for a reason.
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Innenstadt Homberg (Ohm)
Frankfurter Straße / Innenstadt, 35315 Homberg (Ohm)