Odenwälder Kerwe Wilhelmsfeld

Wilhelmsfelder Kerwe — Tradition in the Odenwald

The Odenwälder Kerwe in Wilhelmsfeld is one of the most charming summer festivals in the Rhein-Neckar district (state of Baden-Württemberg). Every year on the first weekend of July, the spa town at an altitude of 365 meters transforms into a colorful festival backdrop – for three days, from Saturday to Monday, the community celebrates its Kirchweih (church consecration festival) together with its clubs.

Kerwelauf — Scenic Highlight

The Wilhelmsfelder Kerwelauf, one of the oldest running events in the Odenwald, is the sporting centerpiece of the weekend. The start is on Sunday morning at the Odenwaldhalle, from where the route leads over the Riesenberg, the Linde, and the Prinzensitz (at 499 m, the highest point of the route), Sitzbuche, Tanzplatz, and Münchel back to the hall. Optionally, a half marathon, 10 km run, 6.4 km run, and a 10 km walking route are available. The views over the Odenwald and the challenging elevation gain make the run a must-do event for running enthusiasts in the region.

Amusement Park and Festival Tent

Around the town center, a small amusement park offers carousels and rides for families and children. In the festival tent and at the stalls of the local clubs, you can get regional Odenwald specialties – from the classic bratwurst roll and Kerwekuchen (festival cake) to beer from regional breweries. The clubs, from the fire department and sports club to music and singing clubs, are the carriers and soul of the festival.

Wilhelmsfeld — Spa Town in the Odenwald

Wilhelmsfeld (around 3,300 inhabitants) is located in the southern Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park, about 15 kilometers northeast of Heidelberg. The state-recognized spa town is a popular excursion destination between Bergstraße, Neckartal, and Odenwald. The Kerwe is the social highlight of the summer and brings together locals, former Wilhelmsfeld residents, and guests from the entire Rhein-Neckar district.

A Weekend of Tradition

Those who want to combine the Kerwe with the Kerwelauf should plan for a two-day stay: Saturday evening in the festival tent, Sunday morning for the run, and Sunday afternoon in the amusement park. Monday traditionally brings a quieter conclusion with a Frühschoppen (morning pint) and cozy get-togethers of the clubs.