Pützchens Markt

655 Years of Tradition — from Pilgrimage Site to Grand Kirmes

Pützchens Markt is one of Germany's most traditional Volksfeste. Its roots date back to 1367 and are linked to Saint Adelheid von Vilich: According to legend, a spring emerged at the spot where she struck her abbess's staff into the ground — this developed into a pilgrimage site that, over the centuries, evolved into today's Volksfest. In 2026, Bonn celebrates the 655th edition from September 11 to 15.

Five Days of Kirmes on the Markt-Wiese

On the spacious Markt-Wiese in Bonn-Pützchen (Beuel district, right bank of the Rhine), you'll find:

• Spectacular rides — thrill rides, roller coasters, Ferris wheel, looping
• Nostalgic carousels — tradition since the 19th century
• Amusement and game stalls — shooting galleries, lottery stalls, claw machines
• Gastronomy — Kirmes classics, potato pancakes (Reibekuchen), bratwurst, gingerbread hearts, cocktails
• Pluutenmarkt — one of Germany's largest flea markets with textiles, household goods, and bargains

Fireworks on Tuesday — The Grand Finale

The absolute highlight is the grand closing fireworks on Tuesday evening: Thousands of glowing stars, bouquets, and bombs transform the sky over Pützchen into a colorful spectacle — visible far beyond the city limits. For generations, this fireworks display has been the emotional finale that families, couples, and friends experience together.

Bonn — The Federal City on the Rhine

Bonn, with around 335,000 inhabitants, is known worldwide as the former federal capital (1949–1990) and current UN location. The city is located on the Rhine in southern North Rhine-Westphalia and is the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven. Pützchens Markt takes place in the right-bank district of Beuel — a lively residential and commercial area with a distinct identity. The Volksfest is considered the most important event for the identity of the Beuel citizenry.

Opening Hours and Travel

The Kirmes opens daily from 12:00 PM (weekdays and Sunday from 10:00 AM). Due to the enormous number of visitors, the city strongly advises against using cars: Special buses run from Bonn Central Station, and S-Bahn and Stadtbahn trains run frequently. Park-and-Ride facilities and guarded bicycle parking are available.