Kerwe Ramstein

The Kerwe Ramstein – in Palatinate dialect, “Ramsteiner Kerw” – is one of the oldest and most traditional church festivals (Kirchweih) in the West Palatinate region. In 2024, it celebrated its 300th anniversary, looking back on a history that dates back to the early 18th century. From September 18th to 22nd, 2026, the five-day Kerwe will be celebrated in Ramstein – a central date in the event calendar of the twin towns of the West Palatinate.

Over 300 Years of Tradition

The roots of the Ramsteiner Kerw date back to the early 18th century. The 300th anniversary in 2024 honoured this exceptionally long history. Generations of Ramstein residents have shaped, passed down, and reinvented the Kerwe time and again. Today, the Kerwe combines Palatinate customs with the multicultural profile of a town that thrives on international encounters due to the nearby US Air Base.

Five-Day Festival Rhythm

The Kerwe is celebrated over five days, from Friday to Tuesday, around the 3rd Sunday in September. This exceptional length reflects the historical significance of the festival and provides space for all associations and festival elements: Opening with a barrel tapping ceremony on Friday, dance evenings and live music on the weekend, the main Kerwe day on Sunday with a morning pint (Frühschoppen), lunch, a grand Kerwe parade, and a festive evening, Monday is Family Day, and Tuesday concludes with the Kerwe burial (Kerwebeerdigung) late in the evening.

Kerweborsch and Palatinate Customs

The focus is on the Ramsteiner Kerweborsch – unmarried young men of the town – as well as the Kerweparrer (Kerwe pastor) and the Kerwestrauß (Kerwe bouquet). The humorous and satirical Kerwerede (Kerwe speech) on Sunday afternoon is legendary, using Palatinate wit to comment on the year's events, local personalities, and political happenings.

Kerwe Parade

The highlight is the Kerwe parade on Sunday: decorated floats, several brass bands, the Kerweborsch, friendly associations from the region, and colourful walking groups parade through Ramstein. Thousands of spectators line the streets.

Festival Grounds, Amusement Rides, and Culinary Delights

Carousels, a Ferris wheel, and bumper cars spin on the central festival grounds. The festival tent offers space for dancing and live music. Palatinate classics – Saumagen, Bratwurst, Schwenkbraten, Leberknödel – are on the menu, along with draft beer and Palatinate wine.