Pfingstmarkt Deidesheim

Deidesheim at Pentecost

Visitors to Deidesheim for the first time are surprised by the atmosphere: the small town between the Palatinate Forest and the Rhine Plain is one of Germany's most prominent wine-growing towns, with wineries such as Reichsrat von Buhl, Bassermann-Jordan, Dr. von Bassermann-Jordan, von Winning, and Geheimer Rat Dr. von Bassermann-Jordan, whose names resonate far beyond the country's borders. During the Pentecost holidays, the elegant town center becomes the scene of a four-day market that combines wine culture, tradition, and conviviality.

Open Wineries and Downtown Stalls

During the Pfingstmarkt, many wineries open their courtyards to visitors. Wine is served in the castle courtyards and inner courtyards, often with small live programs, wine tastings, and short tours. In parallel, the market square, Maximilianstraße, and the narrow alleys transform into a continuous festival mile: wine stalls from vintners, Palatinate cuisine, sweets, arts and crafts, and ice cream specialties.

Schlosspark and Children's Fun

In the Schlosspark, a children's amusement area with a carousel, games, and stalls awaits the youngest guests. The park also serves as a quieter retreat for families needing a break from the hustle and bustle of the town center. In the days leading up to the Billy Goat Auction, concerts and smaller stage formats also take place here.

Grand Finale: Pentecost Tuesday

On Pentecost Tuesday, the Pfingstmarkt reaches its climax with the famous Historic Billy Goat Auction – a tradition dating back to 1534, where the billy goat from Lambrecht is publicly auctioned. The day is dedicated to the festival, with a billy goat hike early in the morning, a folklore show, a mock court, cooper's traditions, and barrel sliding – and of course, the evening auction in the market square.