Medieval Festival at Hilpoltstein Castle

Medieval Life at the Castle Ruins

The medieval festival »Knights, Bards, Cutpurses« is one of the most atmospheric events in Hilpoltstein, Middle Franconia, in the Roth district. The striking castle ruins above the historic old town are transformed into a lively medieval village for a weekend in May, featuring music, crafts, a fire show, and numerous hands-on activities for children. Admission is free.

Minstrels and Sounds

Several groups provide the musical accompaniment: The band »Narrenschiff« plays medieval melodies, and the medieval folk band »Satyrias« creates a great atmosphere with powerful rhythms and medieval sounds. Throughout the weekend, fanfares from the »Edlen Fanfarenspieler zu Hilpoltstein« can be heard, supported by the »Heidecker Trommlerhaufen«.

Crafts and Jousting Tournament

Visitors can experience ancient crafts and knightly activities on the castle grounds: Archery, weapons demonstrations, a jousting tournament, blacksmithing, fire shows, and medieval games alternate with woodturning, shoemaking, sheep farming, weaving, and weapons exhibitions with sword fights.

Program for the Whole Family

For children, there are juggling performances, storytellers, and hands-on activities such as a mosaic workshop or soap making. The unique castle setting makes the festival an experience for the whole family in the heart of Franconia. The festival is organized by the town of Hilpoltstein as part of the HIPlive series.