Kirmes Nonnweiler

Saarland Fair Culture by the National Park

Nonnweiler is the northernmost municipality in the Saarland and the gateway to the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park. Located in the St. Wendel district, the village at the foot of the Dollberg and on the A1 motorway between Saarbrücken and Trier has always been characterised by a vibrant club and festival culture. The main village fair is one of the central local festivals of the year and, in mid-June, brings together thousands of visitors from the surrounding districts of Primstal, Otzenhausen, Sitzerath, Braunshausen, Mariahütte, and Bierfeld.

Four Days from Friday to Monday

The fair follows the traditional four-day schedule: opening on Friday evening, full fair operation on Saturday and Sunday, and family day on Monday with reduced prices on the rides. A festival tent with changing cover bands, dance groups, and DJs forms the social centrepiece. Around the tent, showmen's stalls line up with a chain carousel, Bayern-Schiff, dodgems, shooting gallery, and crêpe stand.

Sunday as the Highlight

The highlight is traditionally the fair Sunday with high mass in the Catholic parish church, followed by a morning pint with the music club, lunch in the clubs, and a family programme in the afternoon. In the late afternoon and evening, a larger band performs in the festival tent, often from the Saarland or Rhineland-Palatinate cover band pool.

More Than Just a Funfair

What makes the Nonnweiler Kirmes special: Unlike purely commercial folk festivals, local clubs — fire brigade, sports, carnival, marksmen, music club — organise the catering themselves. The proceeds go to club activities, youth support, and the preservation of customs. This gives the festival its warm, authentic character.

Hunsrück-Hochwald Nature Backdrop

Visitors to the fair should extend their stay with a hike in the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park or a trip to the Celtic ring fort of Otzenhausen. Lake Bostalsee with its large resort is also only a 20-minute drive away — a good starting point for a fair weekend in the northern Saarland.