Olbernhau Autumn Festival

Olbernhau in the Erzgebirgskreis

Olbernhau, the town of toy and wood art tradition in the Erzgebirgskreis, lies in the picturesque valley of the Flöha river not far from the Czech border. Besides the Christmas market, the autumn festival is the most important festival date of the year and is considered a gathering point for citizens of the town and visitors from the entire Erzgebirge region.

Classic Folk Festival with Erzgebirge Identity

The autumn festival follows the classic dramaturgy of a multi-day folk festival: rides for children and adults, a festival stage with live bands and club performances, showmen with food and drinks, and the traditional Bockbieranstich (bock beer tapping), which opens the first evening of the festival. Characteristic of Olbernhau is the close connection with the Erzgebirge folk art tradition: brass choirs, shawm bands, and the Berglandmusikanten provide the unmistakable sound of the region.

Children's and Family Program

A special feature is the elaborate children's program with the fairy tale character «Kathrinchen Zimtstern», who has been the festival's mascot for years. A lantern parade on Saturday evening winds through Olbernhau's town center – hundreds of children with homemade lanterns are a popular photo motif. Craft stalls, carousels, and hands-on activities round off the family offerings.

Acrobatics and Stage

On the main stage in the Stadtpark, club contributions alternate with artists from beyond the region. Acrobats, dance groups, cover bands, and solo artists fill the program. Craft presentations from the Erzgebirge – turners, woodcarvers, lacemakers – complement the traditional character and make the Olbernhauer Herbstfest more than just a funfair.