Oktoberfest Bous

A Saarland Municipality Becomes the "Wiesn"

Bous is located directly on the Saar river in the Saarlouis district, a municipality of just under 7,000 inhabitants with a strong festival tradition. Since 2004, Oktoberfest Bous has been the most spectacular event in the municipal calendar – and it succeeded the former "Chausseefeschd" (1978–2003), which attracted up to 70,000 visitors to the town.

Since 2023, the Oktoberfest has taken place on the Marktplatz Bous (Bous Market Square), the very place where the traditional Peter-und-Paul-Kirmes has been held for decades. Both events now combine to form the Bouser Festwochen – a ten-day festival encompassing a Volksfest, concerts, children's activities, and the Oktoberfest festival tent.

The Festival Tent and the Mega Weekends

At its heart is the Festzelt (festival tent) with its Oktoberfest atmosphere: long wooden tables, Maßkrugs (litre steins), pretzels, roast chicken, pork knuckle – Bavarian style in a Saarland setting. The musical line-up combines classic Oktoberfest hits with cover bands playing a mix of pop, rock, and party music. Visitor numbers usually exceed all expectations on the two main weekends.

Anyone who fancies it traditionally comes in traditional costume – lederhosen or dirndl are part of the etiquette for the best evenings, even if the look is neither strictly authentic nor mandatory in the Saarland.

Peter-und-Paul-Kirmes Runs in Parallel

While the festival tent buzzes with excitement, the Peter-und-Paul-Kirmes runs concurrently on the market square – featuring classic amusement rides, carousels for children, food stalls, and showmen. This combination of "Wiesn" (Oktoberfest) atmosphere and Saarland fairground is unique in the state.

Family Programme

During the day on weekends, the festival is explicitly family-friendly. Children's festival days with entertainment programmes, rides suitable for children, and reduced prices are a regular feature. The Bouser Festwochen deliberately positions itself not just as a party event, but as a community festival for all age groups.

Established in the Saarland Festival Calendar

With a ten-day run and its mix of a festival tent, concerts, and Kirmes, Bous is among the most visited Volksfeste in the Saarland. The 2025 edition took place from September 13th to 22nd – the 2026 edition is expected around the same time (September), with the exact date to be announced by the organiser in spring 2026.