Schlossfestspiele Geislingen

Moated Castle as a Historic Backdrop

The Wasserschloss Geislingen (Schloßplatz 5, 72351 Geislingen) is one of Württemberg's best-preserved moated castle complexes – a two-part castle with moats and a Renaissance structure, nestled in the town center of Geislingen in the Zollernalb district (AGS 08417). Since 2022, the Schlossfestspiele have staged this building annually as a medieval spectacle – the 2026 edition is the fifth and establishes the format as a fixed date in the Southern German medieval market calendar.

40 Traders Camped at the Castle

Around 40 historical traders set up their camps in and around the castle: blacksmiths with glowing forges, basket weavers, leather craftsmen, bakers with wood-fired ovens for flatbread, mead and honey vendors, woodturners, candlemakers, healers with herbal remedies, costume tailors. In addition, camp groups demonstrating life in the High Middle Ages: soldiers, nobles, citizens.

Spectacles and Competitions

Three spectacular highlights mark the weekend: archery with historical recurve bows, axe throwing, and sword fighting demonstrations by the camp groups – both choreographed performances and live duels in full armor. On Saturday evening, from dusk onwards, a fire show with fire-eaters, jugglers, and stilt walkers in the inner courtyard. On Sunday, a jousting tournament with lances and equestrian stunts – the most spectacular program item.

Schedule and Sunday Opening Hours

Friday, March 20, 2026: 5–11 PM. Saturday, March 21, 2026: 11 AM–11 PM. Sunday, March 22, 2026: 11 AM–5 PM. In Geislingen, a Sunday opening for shops takes place parallel to the market Sunday – retailers open their doors, families can combine their market visit with shopping.

Geislingen at the Foot of the Zollernalb

Geislingen is located in the Zollernalb district at the transition from the Swabian Jura (Schwäbische Alb) to Hohenzollern – a scenically attractive region with castles (Hohenzollern, Reichenstein), forests, and the Alb high plateau. The Schlossfestspiele bring together medieval fans from the entire Stuttgart, Tübingen, Reutlingen, and Lake Constance regions. A weekend with medieval atmosphere – and with the most authentic moated castle as a stage that can be found in Southern Germany.