Traditional village Kirchweih after Corpus Christi in the Franconian Switzerland
The Kirchweih in Pilgerndorf is one of many examples of a typical Franconian Kerwa: a small village community, a traditional inn, a decorated Kirchweih tree (Kirwasbaam) and a four-day festival that significantly shapes the annual rhythm of a small place. Pilgerndorf belongs to the town of Hollfeld and is located in the northern Franconian Switzerland, right in the middle of beech forests, karst plateau and dry valleys.
Like many village Kirchweihen in the Franconian Switzerland, the Kerwa in Pilgerndorf is celebrated on the Sunday after Corpus Christi – in 2026, this will be on June 7th, with the eve starting on Thursday, June 4th (Corpus Christi), and concluding on Whit Monday. The date has been firmly established for generations and is based on the Catholic festival calendar.
The focus is on the Pilgerndorf inn, which serves as an indoor festival tent during the Kerwa. In front of the inn or in the village square, the Kirchweih tree, decorated with colourful ribbons, traditional dolls and fir branches, is erected by the Pilgerndorf lads – a central ritual of every Franconian Kerwa. Over the festival days, there are dance evenings, music with local bands, raffles and the typical 'Auspflanzen' (dismantling) on the last day.
Hollfeld has around 5,500 inhabitants and is located in the north of the Bayreuth district. The region is famous for its caves, rocks and more than 70 breweries in the surrounding area. Those who come to the Kerwa in Pilgerndorf will also discover one of the most charming corners of Upper Franconia, ideal as a starting point for hikes.
The 2026 Kirchweih follows the firmly established rhythm of the village Kerwa: festival begins on Corpus Christi Thursday with a service and subsequent lunch service at the inn, main festival day on the Sunday after Corpus Christi (June 7th), concluding on Whit Monday with the traditional 'Auspflanzen' (dismantling) of the Kirchweih tree.
The event is organised by the Pilgerndorf village community in cooperation with the inn and the town of Hollfeld. Registration not required, admission free.
Pilgerndorf is located about 4 km from Hollfeld in the Bayreuth district. Arrive via the B22 from Bayreuth or Bamberg, then follow the signs to the village. Parking is limited; travel by bicycle or on foot is recommended.
Free. Food and drinks at the inn and stalls.
Festival operations in the inn / at the village square on all days, from midday on festival days.
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Gasthaus / Dorfplatz Pilgerndorf
Pilgerndorf, 96142 Hollfeld