Rathauskirmes Meppen

Tradition with City Centre Charm

The Rathauskirmes Meppen is more than just a funfair – it's part of the city's autumn identity. Unlike fairs held on remote grounds, this Kirmes (fair) takes place right in the heart of Meppen's city centre, nestled between historic townhouses, the market square, and the Hubbrücke. This fusion of the showman's world and the established urban architecture creates the unique appeal of this fair.

Around 70 Showmen — Four Days of Programme

Over the four days of the festival, the Kirmes brings together a wide array of rides, stalls, and game stands – typical highlights include the Ferris wheel offering views over the city centre, classic roller coasters and looping rides, children's attractions (carousels, bumper cars, haunted house), shooting galleries, lotteries, and diverse food stands serving Bratwurst, fries, crêpes, candied almonds, and East Frisian specialities.

Programme Highlights

Friday, October 16, 2026

The Rathauskirmes opens at 2 PM. The mayor and showman representatives mark the official start. In the evening, around 9:30 PM, a grand music-synchronised fireworks display at the Hubbrücke – one of the most spectacular fireworks of the season in Emsland.

Saturday, October 17, 2026

Full fair operation in the city centre, a busy day with high visitor numbers from Meppen and the surrounding area.

Sunday, October 18, 2026 — Sunday Opening for Shopping

From 1 PM, the shops in Meppen's city centre open for the Sunday shopping event. The fair and shopping merge into a perfect family outing.

Monday, October 19, 2026 — Family Day

Reduced prices apply to all rides – the ideal day for families with children to explore the fair to their heart's content.

Location and Atmosphere

The city centre location makes the Rathauskirmes particularly charming: amidst the rides, historic houses, and the Hubbrücke, an atmosphere is created that few city centre fairs can offer in this form. The Hubbrücke itself becomes a dramatic backdrop during the fireworks.