Merzig Apple Wine Festival

Largest Apple Wine Festival on the Saar

As October 3rd approaches, the city center of Merzig transforms into a single Viez mile. The Merzig Apple Wine Festival is the oldest and largest apple wine festival on the Saar – the 55th edition in 2026 marks an anniversary year for an event that has been an integral part of the Saarland's cultural calendar since 1970.

Viez – the Saarland Apple Wine

Viez is more than just apple wine – it is a cultural heritage. On the Saar, in the Eifel, and in Luxembourg, this specialty has been cultivated for generations: made from regional cider apples, fermented in wooden barrels, and served in Bembeln (traditional jugs). At the Viezfest, it is available in all variations: dry or sweet, warm or cold, often refined with honey or spices. Regional fruit brandies and, of course, draft beer are also served.

Three Stages for All-Day Atmosphere

The festival grounds are spread across the city center of Merzig with three main stages:

• Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square) – Opening stage with ceremonies and major acts
• Marktplatz (Market Square) – Regional bands and brass music
• Trierer Straße – Schlager, pop, and cover bands

Around 35 stands run by local clubs offer visitors Saarland specialties: Schwenker (grilled meat skewers), Lyoner (sausage), Bratwurst (sausage), Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), crêpes, coffee, and cake. The clubs operate independently – proceeds go to club activities.

Opening with Viez Royalty

The festival begins at 10:30 AM with the official opening on the Town Hall steps. The highlight is the appearance of the reigning Viez royalty – in 2025/2026, these are Viez Queen Laura IV. and Princesses Jolina and Margarete. They are crowned annually at the Market of Delicacies in mid-September and represent the Saarland and Viez culture throughout the year.

30,000 Visitors and National Attention

With around 30,000 visitors from all over Germany and the neighboring countries of Luxembourg and France, the Viezfest is one of the largest folk festivals in the Saarland. Merzig train station is reachable from Saarbrücken in 30 minutes via RB connections – perfect for a day trip.

Merzig and the Saarschleife

Those visiting the Viezfest should plan an excursion to the nearby Saarschleife (8 km away) – Germany's most famous river bend is just a short drive away and is one of Germany's most photographed landscapes. The Villeroy & Boch town of Mettlach with Saareck Castle and the Keravision experience center is also worth a visit.