Lauterbacher Prämienmarkt

A Market Tradition Since 1266

The Lauterbacher Prämienmarkt is one of the oldest markets in Central Hesse. Lauterbach received its town and market rights as early as 1266, and for centuries the market has taken place every year around Corpus Christi. In 2026, it will be held for the 254th time – making it one of the longest continuously celebrated events in Hesse.

Upper Hesse's Largest Folk Festival

With a duration of over a week and the combination of a market, livestock show, folk festival, and festival tent, the Prämienmarkt is the largest folk festival in Upper Hesse. The festive atmosphere permeates the entire town: the historic town center is illuminated in the central market square, the large festival tent is located on the Bleiche festival grounds, along with the entire amusement park area with rides.

Opening and Closing

The opening in 2026 will take place on Saturday, May 30, starting at 4 PM in the market square – with a ceremonial speech by the mayor and the first keg tapping. The market will then run for nine days until Sunday, June 7. The closing event is the Lauter fireworks over the city.

'Strolchenlauf' on June 2

On Tuesday, June 2, the 12th Lauterbacher Strolchenlauf will take place – a children's run format that adds a sporty family event to the Prämienmarkt. Registration opens on March 27, 2026.

Main Day with Market and Livestock Show

The main day is traditionally Wednesday (June 3, 2026): On this day, the market and livestock show run in full swing. The livestock show has a competitive character – 'premiums' are awarded for the best animals, hence the market's name. Accompanying event: Crowning of the Lauterbach Beer Queen.

Lauterbach and the Vogelsberg Region

Lauterbach is located in the Vogelsberg district in the heart of Hesse, at the foot of the Vogelsberg (Hesse's highest low mountain range). The town, with around 13,000 inhabitants, preserves a dense half-timbered cityscape and is considered the 'unofficial capital' of the Vogelsberg region. The Prämienmarkt attracts thousands of visitors from further afield every year.