Kirmes Steinberg-Deckenhardt (Quetschekerb)

Quetschekerb — what it actually means

"Quetsche" is the dialect word in Saarland for Zwetschge (plum). The Quetschekerb in Steinberg-Deckenhardt refers to the former Schaumberger fruit-growing region, which traditionally had its harvest time in September. The Kerb (Saarland dialect for Kirchweih/Kirmes) has celebrated the transition from summer to autumn for generations without interruption — a local festival with a clearly rural character, organized by the village development association Steinberg-Deckenhardt e.V. together with the music club, sports club, fire department, and parish.

Five days in a row

Unlike many shorter Saarland kirmes, the Quetschekerb extends over five days from Friday to Tuesday. The traditional start is the Schlachtfest on Friday evening — a Saarland specialty where fresh sausage and Wellfleisch are served directly from the pan. Saturday and Sunday are then dedicated to the festival tent with live bands. The Kirmes Sunday features the high mass in the parish church, Frühschoppen with the Steinberg-Deckenhardt Music Club, and a family program. Monday is family day, Tuesday is the convivial conclusion.

Music club as the cultural heart

The Steinberg-Deckenhardt Music Club (MV-SD) plays a special role, not only providing musical accompaniment for the high mass and Frühschoppen but also contributing its own program. The club is one of the most active brass music clubs in the St. Wendel district and is strongly committed to promoting young talent ("Jugend musiziert").

Football on Kirmes Monday

A second pillar of the festival is the traditional football tournament of SV Steinberg-Deckenhardt, which takes place on the sports field during the Quetschekerb. It attracts teams from surrounding villages and gives the kirmes its special sporty and social touch.

Schaumberger Land

Steinberg-Deckenhardt is located at the foot of the Schaumberg (568 m) — the "holy mountain" of Saarland with the Schaumberg Tower and panoramic views stretching to the Hunsrück. Those visiting the kirmes should plan to climb the tower — about a 1.5-hour leisurely hike with fantastic views.