Kirmes Neuenkirchen (Damme)

Village Fair with a Long History

The Kirmes Neuenkirchen dates back to the Catholic church consecration festival, which commemorates the inauguration of the St. Vinzentius parish church annually. As in many villages in the Oldenburger Münsterland, a secular folk festival has developed from the religious occasion over generations, which is now jointly supported by showmen, clubs, and restaurateurs. Neuenkirchen is a district of the town of Damme and is located at the foot of the Dammer Berge.

Free Beer Opening on Friday

One of the most popular rituals of the Kirmes is the keg tapping at 3 PM on Friday. The mayor or club representatives then invite attendees for free beer in the Rathausplatz, which traditionally marks the official start of the three festival days. Showmen, carousels, and food stalls then open for business, and the festival weekend gets underway.

Flea Market on the Weekend

A large flea market on the weekend complements the program of the actual Kirmes. Private individuals, clubs, and commercial flea market vendors offer household goods, books, toys, clothing, and curiosities. The flea market is known beyond the village borders and attracts numerous bargain hunters every year.

Family Fair for the Whole Region

The Kirmes Neuenkirchen sees itself as a family festival with classic rides such as a chain carousel, children's carousel, dodgems, as well as food stalls offering bratwurst, fries, sweets, cotton candy, and candied almonds. Clubs and restaurateurs provide drinks and hot meals, and in the evening, young and old meet in the festival tent or in front of the pubs around the parish church.