Middle Franconian village Kirchweih in the Steigerwald foothills
The Kirchweih in Gutenstetten embodies the tradition of Middle Franconian village Kirchweihen, which are particularly numerous and pronounced in the Neustadt an der Aisch-Bad Windsheim district. The festival weekend begins on Friday evening with the beer tapping of the first brewery and the opening dance of the Kerwasburschen, a group of young men from the village who serve as the ceremonial heart of the Kerwa.
On Saturday, the Kerwasbaum, adorned with colorful ribbons, a crown, and small gifts, is erected on the festival grounds in an elaborate ceremony – traditionally by hand using long poles. Afterwards, the Kerwasburschen perform their "Antanz": a festive line dance that keeps old customs alive. The evening is characterized by live music and dancing in the festival tent.
On Sunday, the festive church service in the Evangelical Lutheran Parish Church of St. John the Baptist marks the solemn start. Afterwards, the village gathers for Frühschoppen with brass music in the festival tent. Schäufele, Bratwürste, and sweet Krapfen are served, while the Kerwasburschen perform their dances again. The day concludes with live music.
The region around Gutenstetten is home to several small Franconian private breweries that supply beer on tap for the Kerwa. The Aischgrund is also known for its carp cuisine – during the Kirchweih, fresh baked carp is offered in the festival catering as an alternative to Schäufele.
In the Neustadt-Bad Windsheim district, the Franconian Kirchweih tradition is particularly intensely cultivated: over 100 Kirchweihen take place in this region alone every year. Gutenstetten is one of the traditional villages where customs are supported by an active community of clubs and the festival committee.
Gutenstetten is located about 6 kilometers northeast of Neustadt an der Aisch in the Steigerwald foothills. By car via the A3 (Schlüsselfeld exit) or the B470 federal highway. By train to Neustadt (Aisch) and then by bus.
Admission to the festival grounds and the catering is free. Food, drinks, and rides are paid for on site.
Second weekend in July, traditionally Friday to Monday. The exact date will be published in the Gutenstetten community's event calendar.
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Festplatz Gutenstetten
Hauptstraße, 91468 Gutenstetten