Langenauer Achhocketse with Trogfahren

A Tradition for Over 30 Years

The Achhocketse is one of the most distinctive club festivals in the Swabian province — yet it is known far beyond Langenau. The organizer is the Männergesangverein Langenau 1868 e.V., one of the oldest clubs in the city, with roots reaching back to the mid-19th century. The festival takes place annually on a weekend in June — in the central Wasserstraße, directly on the banks of the Ach, a small stream flowing through Langenau. The very special attraction: the Sautrogrennen, a true Swabian invention that makes the festival a regionally unique spectacle.

Sautrogfahren — The Competition on the Ach

Sautröge are wooden, elongated tubs originally used for feeding pigs. In Langenau, they now serve as racing boats: four-person teams sit in the Sautrog, one acting as the helmsman with a paddle, and try to complete a set course on the Ach as quickly as possible. The city championship has two categories: adults and youth (up to 18 years). Falls, capsizes, and soaking wet losing teams are guaranteed — the audience on the bank cheers, celebrates, and supports with Pils, Maultaschen, and grilled food.

Catering by Club Members

As with many Swabian club festivals, the members of the Männergesangverein handle all the catering themselves: Maultaschen, Wurstsalat, Linsen mit Spätzle, Bratwurst, Pommes, Swabian potato salad, homemade cake. Accompanied by beer from regional breweries, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. The proceeds go towards club activities — choir practice, sheet music purchases, concert tours, and supporting young talent. With its multi-year concert series and its supporting role in annual events, the MGV Langenau is an important cultural pillar of the city.

Directly on the Ach — Cozy Festival Atmosphere

The Wasserstraße in Langenau is located directly on the banks of the Ach — a cozy, small stream that flows through the town. The festival skillfully utilizes this location: the festival tent and stalls are set up by the water, and tables and benches spread out along the banks. The water forms the natural grandstand for the Sautrogrennen — spectators stand directly by the water and see every effort, every capsize, every victory up close. An atmosphere that large commercial events cannot offer.