Poppenrichter Kirwa

Kirwa as the Heart of Upper Palatinate Tradition

In the Upper Palatinate, the Kirchweih is usually called "Kirwa". It dates back to the church consecration of the local church but has evolved into a distinct village festival, with the erection of the Kirwabaum, the Kirwabaum dance, brass band music, and regional specialties forming its core. The Poppenrichter Kirwa follows this tradition – with an annual recurrence in autumn.

Poppenricht in the Amberg-Sulzbach District

Poppenricht is a municipality in the Amberg-Sulzbach district (AGS 09371) in the Upper Palatinate, located about 7 km north of Amberg. The municipality consists of several districts; club life is dense and shapes the festival's program. The local Kirwagemeinschaft M.-Poppenricht organizes the festival in cooperation with other clubs.

Village Square as the Venue

The venue is the village square in the town center. This is where the Kirwabaum is erected, and the program starts from here. Throughout the day, the festival ceremony, brass band music, dance performances, and catering follow one another. Admission is free. The atmosphere is enhanced by short distances, regional specialties, and the sound of polkas and waltzes. Families from Poppenricht itself, from Amberg, and the surrounding municipalities traditionally use the Kirwa as a family meeting point.

Organizers' Recommendation

The official description of the Kirwa recommends arriving early to fully enjoy the relaxed atmosphere – polkas, waltzes, the typical hustle and bustle around the Kirwabaum, and the regional specialties are part of the day's essential offerings.