Schaffest of the Upper Franconian Sheep Breeders (Ahorn)

Animal Show and Traditions at the Alte Schäferei

The Schaffest of the Upper Franconian Sheep Breeders is the most important annual meeting point for sheep farmers in Upper Franconia. The venue is the Alte Schäferei in Ahorn, a place with its own sheep farming heritage in the Upper Franconian district of Coburg. Today, the area houses the Ahorn Equipment Museum, which exhibits traditional rural equipment and sheep farming tools – the perfect setting for the annual sheep breeding event.

Sheep Breeds and Judging

The focus is on various Upper Franconian sheep breeds, including the regionally typical Coburger Fuchsschafe (in the "Golden Fleece") and the distinctive Rhönschafe with their dark heads. A professional sheep judging evaluates the finest animals, a youth competition tests the breed and animal knowledge of young participants, and a popular program item is the "Guess the Ram's Weight" – visitors guess the weight of a ram, and the closest guess wins.

Sheep Shearing, Wool Art, and Lamb Specialties

Live demonstrations of sheep shearing by experienced shearers showcase the traditional craft; donkeys, goats, cattle, and ponies supplement the animal selection. Hand-spun and hand-dyed wool is offered at sales stands, complemented by wool processing workshops. Culinary offerings range from lamb bratwurst and lamb and bean stew to other lamb specialties. A children's program with games and animal contact rounds off the family festival.

Key Data

• 15th edition in 2026 – established format
• Alte Schäferei Ahorn (Equipment Museum)
• One festival day, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Sheep judging and youth competition
• Sheep shearing demonstrations, wool art stands
• Lamb specialties (bratwurst, bean stew)
• Additional animal selection: donkeys, goats, cattle, ponies
• Admission for adults, children under 12 free

The state of Bavaria and the Upper Franconian district of Coburg preserve the agricultural and sheep farming traditions of Upper Franconia with the Schaffest in Ahorn. The Ahorn Equipment Museum serves as a cultural center for regional rural heritage – a format that combines animal show, tradition, and family festival.