Oldest Volksfest in the city since 1748 — five-day autumn market with carousels, concerts, and flea and farmers' market
Founded in 1748, the Scharmbecker Herbstmarkt is one of the oldest continuously celebrated Volksfeste in Lower Saxony. 276 editions over more than 270 years make it a festival format that has shaped generations of Osterholz-Scharmbeck residents. What began as a cattle and harvest market has evolved over the centuries into a versatile autumn festival — without losing its traditional roots.
The autumn market spans five days and brings together a diverse program: carousels and rides in the cattle market, concerts and disco programs on stages in the city center, Sunday shopping in retail stores, a flea and farmers' market with regional products and antiques, and the emotional festival highlight on Monday evening: the weighing of the Scharmbecker Bulle.
On Monday at 6 PM, the traditional weighing of the Scharmbecker Bulle takes place — a living tradition that keeps the festival's agricultural roots alive. Hundreds of spectators follow the ceremony and occasionally bet on the animal's weight. The spectacle marks the climax of the festival's conclusion.
The market opens on Saturday, and Sunday brings the largest crowds with the flea and farmers' market and Sunday shopping. Monday evening features the emotional highlight: the weighing of the Scharmbecker Bulle at 6 PM.
Concerts and disco programs take place on stages in the city center. Carousels and rides characterize the cattle market.
The exact program for 2026 will be published by the organizer in spring and summer. The structure follows the proven key points of previous years: opening on Saturday, farmers' market on Sunday, bull weighing on Monday evening, full operation on Tuesday and Wednesday.
City center and cattle market, 27711 Osterholz-Scharmbeck (Lower Saxony, Osterholz district).
Public parking spaces in the city center. High occupancy during the festival — travel by train recommended.
Entry to the market is free. Rides and gastronomic offerings are paid for on-site.
The flea and farmers' market usually takes place on Sunday. Sunday shopping complements the offerings.
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