Kirchweih Ottensoos

Franconian Kärwa Customs in the Nürnberger Land

The Kirchweih Ottensoos – 'Ottensooser Kärwa' for short – is an integral part of village customs in the Nürnberger Land district. The municipality of Ottensoos is located in the Pegnitz Valley between Lauf and Hersbruck and traditionally celebrates its Kirchweih in June with all the typical elements of a Franconian Kärwa.

Kirwaboum, Madla, and Kirwabaum

The festival is carried by the Ottensoos Kirwaboum and Madla, the young fair society. They erect the decorated Kirwabaum and shape the Kärwa with traditional costume and dance. Highlights include the bird soup and the Kirwafrühschoppen.

Folk Song Singing and Fair Operations

• Kirchweih operations between the village square and the village pond
• Numerous showmen for entertainment and catering
• Traditional folk song singing on Kirchweihsamstag at the village square
• Bird soup, Kirwabaum, and Frühschoppen as fixed customs

A Living Village Tradition

The Ottensooser Kärwa combines Franconian customs with social village life. The folk song singing on Saturday evening is the emotional centerpiece for many visitors – a feast for the eyes and ears that keeps the tradition alive for generations and attracts guests from the entire Nürnberger Land.