Kirmes Kastel

Hochwald Fair in the Sankt Wendel District

Kastel is one of nine districts of the municipality of Nonnweiler in the northern Saarland — embedded in the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park, with access to Bostalsee lake and the Celtic Ringwall of Otzenhausen. The Kastel Kirmes (village fair) at the end of August is part of the Hochwald village's annual festival calendar and is one of the region's traditional village fairs.

Fire Brigade Marquee

The main organiser of the festival is the Kastel Volunteer Fire Brigade — together with the local council and other village associations. The marquee at the festival grounds in the village centre is the hub of activity; the ceremonial tapping of the first beer keg takes place here on the first evening, bands play here over the four festival days, and beer is served and roasts are carved here.

Showmen and Family Programme

Travelling showmen bring carousels, shooting galleries, and small rides. Sunday afternoon is dedicated to the family programme — with reduced prices for children and a performance by the village music band. The atmosphere is cosy and village-like, without big-city hustle and bustle.

Connection to the Celtic Park

Families visiting the fair can easily combine their visit with an excursion to the Celtic Park Otzenhausen — the reconstructed Celtic Ringwall with a visitor centre and hiking trails. Both locations are just a few minutes apart in the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park.

Nature Park, Hochwald, Local Heritage

The Hochwald region around Nonnweiler is one of the most scenically attractive areas of the Saarland. Village fairs like the one in Kastel are part of a cultural fabric that is still intact here — unlike in many urbanised regions. Those who want to experience the Saarland away from the big Volksfeste (popular festivals) will find an authentic format here.