Ochsenfurter Bratwurstfest

A Pentecost Festival with a Long Tradition

When the Mainwiesen meadows are festively decorated for Pentecost, one of Lower Franconia's most traditional Volksfeste begins in Ochsenfurt. The Ochsenfurter Bratwurstfest has its roots in the medieval Pentecostal Ride tradition: after the horse blessing at the Wolfgangskapelle chapel, pilgrims would fortify themselves with bratwurst and beer. When the church banned the "worldly excesses" in 1803, the spiritual pilgrimage and the secular entertainment were spatially separated. What remains is a Volksfest tradition that has been organized by the Volkstrachtenverein Ochsenfurt e.V. on the Mainwiesen since 1963.

Three Days of Festival Tent by the Main River

For three days – from Pentecost Saturday to Pentecost Monday – the Mainuferstraße (riverbank road) transforms into a festival mile with a festival tent, amusement park, and stalls. The opening is marked by a procession from the town down to the Mainwiesen, followed by the ceremonial tapping of the first beer keg by the mayor. The two Ochsenfurt breweries take turns serving beer – a gesture to the local brewing tradition. In the festival tent, popular bands from the region perform, ranging from brass music to party bands. The highlight is the grand fireworks display late on Pentecost Monday, which reflects in the Main river and concludes the festival week.

Traditional Costume, Dance, and Franconian Way of Life

The Volkstrachtenverein incorporates Franconian customs: women and men in traditional costumes, folk dances, and the preservation of regional music characterize the festival. The Bratwurstfest is therefore much more than just a beer tent party – it is a living piece of folk culture from the Würzburg district in Bavaria. Every two years, the historical Pentecostal Ride is also celebrated on Pentecost Monday, a procession of riders that directly links back to the medieval roots of the event.

Free Admission, Guaranteed Atmosphere

Admission to all events is free – a hallmark of the festival that makes it a meeting point for the entire region. Families, regular visitors from Würzburg, traditional costume enthusiasts from all over Franconia, and tourists come together here. Anyone who wants to experience Franconian Pentecost authentically cannot miss the Ochsenfurter Bratwurstfest.