Laternenfest Kirchheim unter Teck

Kirchheim at the Foot of the Teck

Kirchheim unter Teck — giving its name to the Swabian Jura hill "Teck" — is located in the Esslingen district (AGS 08116) at the transition from the Swabian Jura to the Albvorland, about 30 km east of Stuttgart. The historic old town with its narrow half-timbered streets, the market square buildings from the 16th/17th centuries, and the nearby Teck Castle form one of the most beautiful preserved old towns in the region.

A Family Tradition Since 1958

The Laternenfest originated in 1958 as an initiative of the city and local schools to make the transition into the dark season tangible for families. Similar to the St. Martin's Day festival on November 11th in many German cities, but independent — the people of Kirchheim have established their own festival date in early November. An almost 70-year tradition that takes place every year without interruption.

The Children's Lantern Procession on November 5, 2026

On the evening of November 5, 2026, children gather with self-made or purchased lanterns in the market square. Accompanied by brass music from a local band, the procession winds through the half-timbered streets of the historic old town — from the market square via Maxstraße and Marktstraße, past the town hall, through the narrow streets back to the starting point. The procession of lights from the lanterns casts a warm glow on the half-timbered facades, creating an almost magical atmosphere.

Family Evening with Mulled Wine and Children's Punch

While the children parade with their lanterns, parents and guests gather in the market square and side streets. Local clubs and caterers serve mulled wine, children's punch, chestnuts, bratwurst, grilled sausages — a classic foretaste of the Christmas market season. Songs are sung, and some schools perform short theatrical scenes.

The Lanterns — Handmade

In the run-up, children in kindergartens and primary schools make their lanterns — usually from colored paper, with wooden handles and wax candles (or modern LED candles for safety reasons). The variety is impressive: animals, houses, suns, abstract shapes. Each lantern is unique.

Getting to Kirchheim

Take the U7 city train from Stuttgart for about 35 minutes to Kirchheim. By train on the Stuttgart–Tübingen line (Kirchheim/Teck station). By car via the A 8 (Kirchheim-Ost exit). Parking around the old town, heavily frequented on the festival evening.