Röthlein Plankirchweih with Plantanz

A Franconian Dance Tradition

The Plankirchweih is a form of Kirchweih (church consecration festival) widespread in Lower Franconia, where the traditional Franconian dance repertoire – the Plantänze – takes center stage: waltzes, Rheinländer, Schottisch, the fast three-step dance "Zipferle," and other circle dances. The term "Plan" originally referred to the dance ground in the village. In Röthlein, near Schweinfurt, this tradition has remained vibrant to this day – supported by the Volkstrachtenverein Röthlein e.V., which has been organizing the Plankirchweih since 1950.

Three Days, Three Highlights

The festival weekend classically extends from Saturday to Monday: On Saturday, the decorated Planbaum is erected, the mayor taps the first keg, and a live band provides the entertainment for the festival evening. On Sunday, the actual Plantanz begins – club dancers in traditional costume and guests learn and dance the Franconian Plantänze, accompanied by the Musikverein Hirschfeld and the Blaskapelle Heidenfeld. On Monday, the festival concludes with further Plantanz, a Frühschoppen (morning pint), and finally the dismantling of the Planbaum.

"Planzehner" Instead of Admission Fee

Remarkable: Admission to the Plankirchweih is free. Those who join the dance contribute the "Planzehner" voluntarily – a donation that the club traditionally uses for social and charitable projects. This model has been in place for decades and makes the Plankirchweih a festival of community solidarity.

Röthlein and the Franconian Wine Region

Röthlein is located in the district of Schweinfurt, on the Main River, nestled in the Franconian wine region. The municipality has around 4,500 inhabitants. With its location on the Main Cycle Path and its vibrant tradition and club scene, Röthlein is one of those places in Lower Franconia where customs are still practiced with unbroken enthusiasm. The Plankirchweih is the most important club festival of the year.