Oberpfälzer Zoigltag

Zoigl – An Intangible Cultural Heritage

Zoigl beer is a Bavarian brewing specialty from the northern Oberpfalz, brewed in five municipalities – Eslarn, Falkenberg, Mitterteich, Neuhaus, and Windischeschenbach – using a special process: Several home brewers use a common communal brewery, brew their wort there, and then mature it at home. Zoigl pubs are recognized by guests by the hanging Zoigl star. The communal brewing system with Zoigl is recognized as intangible cultural heritage in Bavaria and Germany.

The Idea Behind the Zoigltag

With the Oberpfälzer Zoigltag, the district of Oberpfalz has created a format that synchronizes the five Zoigl towns on one action day. The focus is on the interplay of beer culture, historical monuments, and customs: Brewery tours, communal breweries, museums, and historic buildings open their doors, associations offer hikes and hands-on activities, and shuttle buses run between the towns.

Program Structure

Each of the five Zoigl towns organizes its own day program: In Eslarn, the Zoigl Museum is traditionally the focus with a special exhibition on the brewing and communal brewing tradition. Falkenberg attracts visitors with castle tours and a historic mill. Mitterteich classically presents itself through its Zoigl pubs. Neuhaus showcases special exhibitions in the local museum, and Windischeschenbach links the Zoigltag with the local Kirchweih (fair) program and children's activities.

Day of the Open Monument and Shuttle Buses

The Zoigltag is traditionally combined with the Day of the Open Monument (second Sunday in September). A specially established shuttle bus network connects the five Zoigl towns throughout the day. Mitterteich is about 78 kilometers from Eslarn – the bus route makes visiting multiple locations in one day possible.