Obermarchtal Heimatfest Peter und Paul

Obermarchtal — 1250 Years of Monastery Village on the Danube

Obermarchtal is located in the Alb-Donau district (AGS 08425) south of Ulm, at the transition from the Swabian Jura to the Danube. With just under 1,300 inhabitants, it is a typical monastery village — the place originated around Marchtal Abbey, which was founded by Charlemagne in 776. The municipality is celebrating its 1250th anniversary in 2026 — a year full of special events.

The Baroque Monastery Ensemble as a Festive Backdrop

The Obermarchtal Monastery Courtyard with the Baroque Minster (built between 1686 and 1701), the monastery complex, and today's Stift Obermarchtal (today a Catholic educational center) forms a unique festive backdrop. The Minster is one of the most important Baroque churches in Southern Germany — with a richly decorated facade and a magnificent interior.

107th Edition — Patron Saint's Day for Generations

The Heimatfest Peter und Paul has been celebrated for over 100 years on the weekend around the feast day of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29th). The 107th edition in 2026 also falls within the anniversary year of 1250 Years of Obermarchtal — hence with a special program and a visit from the bishop.

Program 2026 (Friday to Sunday)

Friday, June 26, 2026 — Festival Opening

• Evening: Festival opening with barrel tapping at the festival tent
• Concert by the Obermarchtal Music Association
• Catering by the associations

Saturday, June 27, 2026 — Marchtal Arts and Crafts Market

• Morning: Opening of the Marchtal Arts and Crafts Market in the Monastery Courtyard
• Throughout the day: Artisans from the Alb-Donau region with wood, ceramics, textiles, jewelry
• Evening: Festival tent program, dance evening

Sunday, June 28, 2026 — Festival Day with Bishop Krämer

• Morning: Grand festive church service in the Minster celebrated by Bishop Dr. Klaus Krämer (Bishop of the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart)
• Midday: Festive meal in the festival tent
• Afternoon: Grand Procession through Obermarchtal with floats, traditional costumes, music bands — part of the 1250-year celebration
• Reunion of former residents: Meeting with former residents returning for the festival
• Evening: Festival finale in the festival tent

Marchtal Arts and Crafts Market

A special feature: the Marchtal Arts and Crafts Market, which showcases the region between the Danube and the Swabian Jura in its artisanal traditions. Wood turners, ceramic workshops, textile artists, goldsmiths from nearby Ulm and Sigmaringen — a concentrated display of regional craftsmanship.

Catering by the Music Association

The Obermarchtal Music Association is the host and main caterer. Swabian-Upper Swabian specialties: Maultaschen, Käsespätzle, Schäufele, grilled bratwurst and steak, coffee and cake in the afternoon. Beer from a regional brewery, wine from the Alb-Donau region.