Kirmes Elxleben (Ilm-Kreis) 2026

25 Years of Kirmesverein Elxleben

The Kirmes Elxleben in the Ilm-Kreis district has been organized by the Kirmesverein Elxleben e. V. for over 25 years. The association keeps the classic Thuringian Kirmes tradition alive and shapes the most important village festival of the year. Elxleben is picturesquely situated on the Gera river in the fertile region north of Erfurt — a typical central Thuringian village with active club life.

Three-Phase Kirmes 2026

The Elxleben Kirmes follows the traditional three-phase model: Ständchen on September 20, 2026 — the Kirmesburschen (festival lads) parade through the village, serenading residents, collecting money, and goods. Main Festival from September 25-27, 2026, at Klein-Winternheimer-Platz and in the Festhalle with a festival tent, live music, dance evenings, and a gastronomic program. Nachkirmes on October 2, 2026, as a cozy conclusion to the Kirmes season. Three weekends, three different moods, three times pure club and village life.

Elxleben — Typical Village on the Gera Valley

Elxleben is located in the Ilm-Kreis district (state of Thuringia) on the Gera river, about 10 kilometers north of Arnstadt. The small community has a lively club scene — Kirmesverein, Heimatverein (local history society), sports club, fire department — and the Kirmes is the highlight of the annual calendar. The region is predominantly agricultural with intensive fruit and vegetable cultivation in the Thuringian Basin.