Kronacher Freischießen

Since 1588 – the fifth season in Kronach

With its origins in 1588, the Kronacher Freischießen is one of the oldest folk festivals in Germany and is considered the "fifth season" by the citizens of Kronach. The Kronach Marksmen's Society has been organizing the festival for over 400 years without any significant interruptions. In 2026, the 437th edition will take place from August 13th to 23rd – eleven days of full operation on the Schützenplatz in the Upper Franconian fortress town.

The largest Volksfest in the Frankenwald

With eleven festival days, several stages, a huge amusement area, and the traditional marksmen's procession, the Kronacher Freischießen is the largest Volksfest in the Frankenwald. Three stages cover the entire musical spectrum from brass music to rock and pop. The festival tent offers classic Volksfest atmosphere with live bands, Maßkrüge (liter steins), and Franconian specialties. In addition, there is a large amusement area with rides and carousels for the whole family.

The Marksmen's Procession and the King's Proclamation

The heart of the Freischießen is the marksmen's tradition. Highlights include the grand marksmen's procession on the first weekend, the marksmen's competition, and the festive proclamation of the new marksmen's king in the festival tent. These rites connect the folk festival with the history of the town and its marksmen's society – the marksmen are not just a folklore element in Kronach, but a living institution.

Kronach – the undefeated fortress town

Kronach, located in northern Upper Franconia at the foot of the Frankenwald, is famous for its completely preserved Rosenberg Fortress, which was never captured during the Thirty Years' War despite severe sieges. With just under 17,000 inhabitants, the town is a typical Franconian medium-sized town with a distinct identity – the Freischießen is one of the central moments of identification for the people of Kronach.

Safety at the festival grounds

Like all major folk festivals, the Kronacher Freischießen has a designated weapons and knife ban zone. Carrying knives of any kind (including picnic and pocket knives) is prohibited in the entire festival area – a measure that has also been introduced at many other Bavarian folk festivals in recent years.