Parkfest Bürgerwache Crailsheim

A Tradition Since 1830

The Bürgerwache Crailsheim 1830 e.V. is one of Württemberg's oldest civic guards. Founded in 1830, during the heyday of civic self-governance in the Kingdom of Württemberg, it has played an important role in Crailsheim's city life as a historical marksmen's and defense society to this day. The annual Parkfest is its most important public engagement: a two-day summer festival that the Bürgerwache supports organizationally and financially, with proceeds flowing back into the association's work — maintenance of historical uniforms, upkeep of weapons, and promotion of local tradition.

Salute Shot and Park Stage

The festival traditionally opens with a salute shot from historical muzzle-loaders — presented by the marksmen in the full original uniform of the Bürgerwache. The spectacle is not only acoustically impressive but also a piece of living city history. Afterwards, the musical program on the park stage takes center stage: regional bands, cover bands, Schlager acts, and brass music, curated differently for each edition. The audience sits on beer benches under the old linden trees of the Stadtpark or stands directly in front of the stage.

Food from the Association's Kitchens

The Bürgerwache takes the lead in catering: members and their families run the stalls with grilled sausages from the fire, fries, sausage salad, Maultaschen, cakes, and of course, their own Pils and Helles beer. The concept is deliberately classic — no street food, no international stalls, but homemade German festival food from the family. This personal touch distinguishes the Parkfest from the supra-regional folk festivals in the region.

Family-Friendly in the Stadtpark

Crailsheim's Stadtpark is one of Hohenlohe's most beautiful inner-city green spaces — a spacious, old park with a playground, trees, and shade. Families will find more than just a festival ground here: children can romp on the playground, parents can relax under the linden trees. The festival weekend alternates annually with other Crailsheim summer dates — in 2025 it took place on July 12/13, and in 2026 it follows the same weekend pattern on July 18/19.