Michaelis-Kirchweih Fürth

The Queen of the Franconian Kirchweihen

The Michaelis-Kirchweih is the largest and most important folk festival in Fürth, an independent city in Middle Franconia in the state of Bavaria. Lovingly called “Kärwa,” it is considered the “Queen of the Franconian Kirchweihen” and is recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage in Bavaria. As one of the largest street Kirchweihen in Germany, it draws over a million visitors to the city.

A Festival That Takes Over the Entire City Center

Unlike a central tent-based folk festival, the Michaelis-Kirchweih spreads across the streets of the old town and city center – with approximately 2,700 meters of stall frontage. Over 250 exhibitors, including large amusement rides, a Ferris wheel, numerous children's rides, around 90 market vendors, and countless food and game stalls, create an exceptional atmosphere in the city. The rides include, among others, Avenger, Hero Fighter, the Orion 2 Ferris wheel, and the Volare chain carousel.

The Harvest Thanksgiving Parade as the Highlight

The traditional Harvest Thanksgiving parade is the undisputed highlight: Around 90 bands and ensembles march from the southern district to the old town. Bavarian Television broadcasts the parade live. Other traditional program points include the drawing of the marriage lottery and the “Betz’n Tanz.”

Franconian Identity and Tradition

The Michaelis-Kirchweih is deeply rooted in Franconian culture and Fürth's identity. It combines tradition, conviviality, and family celebration, and has been a unifying event for the entire city and the Nuremberg/Fürth metropolitan region for generations. Its official recognition as Intangible Cultural Heritage underscores its cultural significance.