Pfingstmarkt Marktleugast

Pilgrimage and Market at Whitsun

The Pfingstmarkt Marktleugast is a traditional annual market closely linked to the Whitsun pilgrimage festival at the Marienweiher Pilgrimage Basilica. Marienweiher is a district of Marktleugast in the Kulmbach district and is located in the Frankenwald Nature Park, northeast of Bayreuth. The basilica is one of the oldest and most significant Marian pilgrimage sites in Upper Franconia.

Candlelight Procession on Whitsun Saturday

Whitsun is one of the main pilgrimage days in Marienweiher. On Whitsun Saturday, the solemn candlelight procession takes place – an impressive testament to living Franconian pilgrimage culture. On Whitsun Sunday, the festive service for the High Feast of Pentecost follows.

Market Activities in the Town

• Festive service for the pilgrimage on the High Feast of Pentecost
• Candlelight procession on Whitsun Saturday
• Market activities with stalls in the town
• Pilgrim groups from the entire region

Franconian Pilgrimage Tradition

The pilgrimage season in Marienweiher runs from May to October, with Whitsun and the Nativity of Mary (Mariä Geburt) as the major feast days with candlelight processions. The Pfingstmarkt combines this deeply rooted spiritual tradition with secular market events, making Marktleugast a focal point for pilgrims and visitors from all over the Frankenwald.