Obertrubach Light Procession – Perpetual Adoration
Up to 1,000 bonfires and lights illuminating the rocky slopes of the Franconian Switzerland
About Obertrubach Light Procession
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A spiritual tradition in winter splendour
The Obertrubach light procession is part of the Catholic tradition of Perpetual Adoration, during which the Blessed Sacrament is venerated without interruption for 40 hours. Each year at the beginning of January, the solemn light procession marks the conclusion, with up to 2,000 faithful accompanying the Blessed Sacrament through the streets of the village centre – one of the largest adoration processions in Bavaria.
Up to 1,000 bonfires on the rocky slopes
What sets Obertrubach apart from other light festivals in the Franconian Switzerland is the spectacular staging of the rocky landscape: up to 1,000 bonfires and sacred symbols are lit on the steep rocky slopes surrounding the village. In addition, there are light arches, Bengal flares, and countless wax candles in the windows of the houses. The combination of winter darkness, rugged Jura rocks, and thousands of flames creates a unique spectacle that occurs once a year.
Schedule of the light festival
- From the afternoon onwards, wax candles are lit in the houses
- From around 4 PM, the bonfires on the rocky slopes are lit
- The village road is closed to car traffic around 4 PM
- The procession begins in the early evening with the priest, altar servers, guild flags, and the brass band
- After the procession, the evening concludes in the village inns.
Obertrubach in the Franconian Switzerland
Obertrubach is located in the Forchheim district (Bavaria), in the heart of the Franconian Switzerland, a low mountain range known for its dramatic Jura rocks, caves, and hiking trails. In summer, Obertrubach is a popular spot for climbing and hiking; in winter, the village becomes the stage for this extraordinary popular piety for one night.
An alternative to the famous Pottenstein
Obertrubach is somewhat overshadowed by the more prominent light festival in Pottenstein (same district, a few days earlier), but is precisely for this reason appreciated by connoisseurs: fewer tourist crowds, more authentic popular devotion, a relaxed atmosphere. Those who wish to experience the light spectacle of the Franconian Switzerland without the hustle and bustle will find Obertrubach to be the perfect place.
Obertrubach Light Procession — edition 2026
On Saturday, January 3, 2026, the annual light procession will take place in Obertrubach. In the afternoon, wax candles will be lit in hundreds of windows, and around 4 PM, the bonfires on the rocky slopes will begin to blaze. At the same time, the village road will be closed to motorized traffic.
In the early evening, the solemn procession with the priest, altar servers, and guild flags will wind its way through the streets of Obertrubach. Up to 2,000 faithful and visitors will accompany the path, illuminated by thousands of flames. After the procession, the village inns invite guests for a cozy conclusion.
Programme Obertrubach Light Procession 2026
Planned Schedule January 3, 2026
- From 4:00 PM: Lighting of the bonfires on the rocky slopes, closure of the village road
- Afternoon/early evening: Wax candles in the houses, light arches, Bengal flares
- Early evening: Solemn procession with the Blessed Sacrament through the village centre
- After the procession: Cozy conclusion in the village inns
Exact time of the procession according to the Obertrubach parish – announcement shortly before the date.
Highlights Obertrubach Light Procession 2026
- Up to 1,000 bonfires on the rocky slopes of Franconian Switzerland
- Up to 2,000 pilgrims accompany the Blessed Sacrament
- Spectacular light staging of the entire village
- Authentic Catholic popular piety
- Less crowded than its counterpart in Pottenstein
Prices Obertrubach Light Procession 2026
Free admission. Mulled wine, sausages, and hot drinks available on site. Free parking at the sports field and on Bergstrasse.
Practical information — Obertrubach Light Procession
Getting there
By car: A9 / A73 to Forchheim, then B470 to Wolkenstein and continue towards Obertrubach. Important: The village road will be closed to car traffic around 4 PM.
Parking: At Schmetterling Reisen on Bergstrasse or at the sports field parking lot.
Recommended viewing points: Bergstrasse with a view of the valley.
Admission & Refreshments
Free admission. Mulled wine, sausages, and hot drinks are offered in the village. Dogs are welcome but should be kept away from the candles.
Clothing
Warm, winter-proof clothing – the festival takes place entirely outdoors.
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Travel to this festival
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Where it takes place Obertrubach Light Procession
Ortskern und Felsenhänge Obertrubach – Fränkische Schweiz
Ortskern Obertrubach, 91286 Obertrubach