Schanzer Pfingstvolksfest Ingolstadt

One of the Three Major Volksfeste in Upper Bavaria

The Schanzer Pfingstvolksfest is one of the most traditional spring Volksfeste in Bavaria. The name "Schanzer" refers to the traditional nickname of the people of Ingolstadt — a reminder of the former fortress city with its ramparts (Schanzen). The tradition of the spring Volksfest dates back to 1946; the current festival grounds on Dreizehnerstraße have been used since 1972 (previously, the festival grounds were south of the old town in the area of today's swimming pool car park).

Kick-off with Parade and "O'zapft is"

The Volksfest traditionally opens with a parade that leads from Rathausplatz through the historic old town to the festival grounds. This is followed by the tapping of the first beer keg by the mayor in the festival tent with the traditional cry "O'zapft is". The opening fireworks on the first evening (10:30 PM) mark the official start of the ten-day festival week.

Two Festival Tents, Rides, Family Festival

The spectrum ranges from thrilling roller coasters to colorful children's carousels for the youngest visitors. Two large festival tents form the heart of the event: the Herrnbräu festival tent (the official tent for the beer tapping) and a second festival tent with live music and regional caterers. Bavarian classics dominate the culinary offerings: roast chicken (Hendl), grilled fish on a stick (Steckerlfisch), pork knuckles (Schweinshaxn), pretzels (Brez'n), and of course, a Maß (liter) of beer from the festival caterer.

Family Days and Senior Afternoon

Within the ten festival days, there are deliberately planned events for different target groups: Senior Afternoon (Tuesday, 1 PM–6 PM) with reduced prices, Family Afternoon (Wednesday, 1 PM–8 PM) with special prices on rides. A second grand fireworks display on the second-to-last evening is a fixed program item.

Volksfest Identity in the Upper Bavarian Danube Region

The Schanzer Pfingstvolksfest has established itself as the third major Volksfest in Upper Bavaria, alongside the Munich Frühlingsfest and the Rosenheim Herbstfest. In the Ingolstadt district (Bavaria), it is one of the most important Volksfeste — complemented by the Schanzer Herbst-Volksfest in September, which also lasts ten days. Both festivals are organized by the Ingolstadt City Cultural Office.