Medieval Market Festival Markt Erlbach

A Medieval Spectacle with Historical Roots

The Medieval Market Festival in Markt Erlbach is deeply rooted in the town's history: in 1308, Konrad von Schlüsselfeld gifted a monastery the tithe "decimam in Erlbach villa Forensi" – a document that first documented the town as a market location. This exact date sparked the first edition of the festival in 2008. Since then, Markt Erlbach and its associations have celebrated their medieval roots in a biennial tradition.

The Festival Grounds in the Old Town

The venue is the historic center of Markt Erlbach: the Hauptstraße, Kirchgasse, and the traditional Weed together form an open festival area lined with market stalls, camp groups, and stages. Timber-framed houses, half-timbering, and the location at the transition between Steigerwald and Frankenhöhe create an authentic backdrop into which the participants seamlessly blend.

Jugglers, Minstrels, and Crafts

Throughout the weekend, jugglers, minstrels, acrobats, and dancers perform on several stages. Medieval bands provide the musical accompaniment with hurdy-gurdy, shawm, and drums. In the camp life, groups demonstrate how people cooked, tanned, forged, and wove in the Middle Ages – with hands-on activities for children included. Archery, camel rides, and falconry complement the offerings.

Fire Show and Fireworks on Saturday

The highlight of Saturday evening is a fire show on the main stage, culminating in an atmospheric fireworks display over the historic town center. Campfires, torchbearers, and musical accompaniment create an experience that goes far beyond a mere medieval market, connecting to medieval folk festivals (Volksfeste).

Markt Erlbach between Steigerwald and Frankenhöhe

Markt Erlbach is situated in the charming hilly landscape on the border between Steigerwald and Frankenhöhe in the state of Bavaria. With around 5,000 inhabitants, the market town forms a central point in the Neustadt an der Aisch-Bad Windsheim district. The Medieval Market Festival is a flagship event that combines the identity as a market town and the centuries-old history of the place with a modern festival character.

Culinary Journey to Another Time

The gastronomy follows the historical staging: suckling pig on a spit, wild goulash, bread from a clay oven, mead, and medieval beer varieties are served in earthenware. Those who wish can come in medieval attire – many guests do. Families will find a dedicated children's program with stories, show fights, and children's crafts.