Krautwischkirmes Dudeldorf
Traditional Mariä Himmelfahrt (Ascension of Mary) fair in the historic castle village of Dudeldorf
About Krautwischkirmes
The Krautwischkirmes Dudeldorf is one of the oldest and most popular fairs in the Südeifel region. It is traditionally celebrated around August 15th – the feast of the Ascension of Mary, when in the Catholic Eifel region, bunches of herbs, the so-called 'Krautwische', are blessed in church. This old folk custom has evolved into a two-day fair in Dudeldorf with a festive church service, races, live music, and convivial gatherings.
On Saturday, adults run the traditional Biedeseecher-Lauf at 6 p.m., followed by live music and cocktails. Sunday is dedicated to the family: a solemn high mass, children's race, coffee and cake with games and entertainment.
A Fair Rooted in Eifel Traditions
Dudeldorf, the idyllic castle village between Bitburg and Wittlich, cherishes a fair tradition deeply anchored in the Catholic folk piety of the Eifel. The name Krautwisch refers to the centuries-old custom of having bouquets of medicinal herbs, grains, and flowers blessed in the parish church on the feast of the Ascension of Mary (August 15th). These blessed bundles were formerly hung above the stable door or in the house as protection against illness, lightning, and storms.
Two Days of Festivities in the Heart of the Castle Village
Over time, this religious occasion has transformed into a two-day village festival that mobilizes the entire community. The Krautwischkirmes takes place on the weekend around August 15th – in 2026, from August 15th to 16th – and combines the solemn church feast, sporting competitions, live music, and culinary delights right in the historic center of Dudeldorf.
The Biedeseecher-Lauf
A special feature of the Krautwischkirmes is the Biedeseecher-Lauf. The name derives from the Eifel dialect word for the villagers and refers to a popular race where adults compete on Saturday evening at 6 p.m. and children on Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. The run winds through the historic alleys of Dudeldorf and is more spectacle than competition – costumes, quirky outfits, and fun are the main focus.
Sociability at the Festival Grounds
After the race on Saturday, the festival stage opens with live music and a cocktail bar from 7:30 p.m. Sunday begins with the solemn high mass, followed by the children's race at 2 p.m. and coffee & cake from 3 p.m. – complete with entertainment for the youngest guests. Catering is traditionally provided by local clubs and the village community.
Dudeldorf — One of the Most Beautiful Village Centers in the Eifel
The fair takes place in the historic castle village of Dudeldorf, part of the Südeifel Nature Park, known for its restored half-timbered houses, castle walls, and town gates. This backdrop makes visiting the Krautwischkirmes a special experience, both scenically and culturally.
Krautwischkirmes — edition 2026
The 2026 Krautwischkirmes in Dudeldorf will be celebrated on the weekend around the Ascension of Mary. Two days of activities combine the Catholic feast day, the traditional Biedeseecher-Lauf, live music with a cocktail bar on Saturday evening, and a children's program with coffee, cake, and games on Sunday. In the heart of the historic castle village, between the church square, castle wall, and festival tent, a picture of a vibrant Eifel village community emerges, celebrating its local festival with pride and warmth.
A Weekend Rich in Tradition
The 2026 Krautwischkirmes bridges the gap from a religious feast day to a convivial family celebration. Saturday sets the sporty-musical tone with the Biedeseecher-Lauf and the live music party, while Sunday is dedicated to the church and family. The fair is organized by the Dudeldorf village community in cooperation with the parish and local clubs.
Programme Krautwischkirmes 2026
2026 Program
The exact program for 2026 will be published by the organizer in spring/summer. The structure follows the proven key points of previous years:
Saturday, August 15, 2026
- 6:00 PM — Biedeseecher-Lauf for adults through the village streets
- 7:30 PM — Opening of the cocktail bar and start of live music at the festival grounds
- until late — Dancing and refreshments
Sunday, August 16, 2026
- 10:30 AM — Solemn high mass for the Ascension of Mary with blessing of the Krautwische in the parish church
- 2:00 PM — Biedeseecher-Lauf for children
- 3:00 PM — Coffee and cake with games, entertainment, and performances by local groups
- from 5:00 PM — Relaxed conclusion at the festival grounds
Detailed schedule available from summer 2026 at dudeldorf.de.
Highlights Krautwischkirmes 2026
- Ascension of Mary high mass with Krautwisch blessing
- Biedeseecher-Lauf for adults on Saturday evening
- Biedeseecher-Lauf for children on Sunday afternoon
- Live music and cocktail bar on Saturday
- Coffee and cake with family program on Sunday
- Festival backdrop in the historic castle village of Dudeldorf
Prices Krautwischkirmes 2026
Admission to the fair is free. Food, drinks, and refreshments are available on-site at standard festival prices.
Practical information — Krautwischkirmes
Date
- Saturday, August 15, 2026 — from afternoon
- Sunday, August 16, 2026 — from morning
Location
- Dudeldorf village center, around the parish church and castle wall
- 54647 Dudeldorf, Eifelkreis Bitburg-Prüm
Getting There
- Car: A60 exit Bitburg, B257 towards Wittlich, approx. 8 km to Dudeldorf
- Parking: Hiking parking lots on the outskirts of the village
- Public Transport: Bus line 410/420 Bitburg–Wittlich
Admission
- Fair on public grounds: free
- Food and drinks for a fee
Notes
- Family-friendly event
- Sturdy footwear recommended due to cobblestones
- Covered areas available in the parish hall in case of rain
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