Siegfriedspektakel Xanten

Four Days of Nibelungen World

The Siegfriedspektakel is one of the largest medieval markets in the Lower Rhine region. For over two decades, it has transformed Xanten's Nordwall — a section of the former Roman city wall — into a four-day medieval market with encampments, jousting tournaments, music, crafts, and the dragon staging 'Fangdorn' every May. In 2026, the 21st edition runs from May 14th to 17th.

Jousting Tournaments and Fire Tournament

On the central tournament field, two grand jousting tournaments on horseback take place daily — at 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM. Skilled riders in full armor compete against each other with lances, swords, and maces. Highlights are the evening fire tournaments on Friday (May 15th) and Saturday (May 16th) at 9:45 PM each — at nightfall, with fire effects and dramatic light staging.

Dragon Fangdorn Three Times Daily

A unique feature of the Siegfriedspektakel is the mechanical dragon Fangdorn, which appears three times daily (11:30 AM, 3:00 PM, and 5:30 PM). The show draws on the Nibelungen myth — Siegfried defeating the dragon in the forest — and is particularly popular with families. Special night performances complement the program on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Two Music Stages — Medieval Rock and Folk

On two music stages in 2026, performers include: The Sandsacks with their mix of folk and rock, Cultus Ferox as an established German medieval rock band, Fabula with pagan folk, and the Mittelalter-Spielweiber (Medieval Playing Women) as a female ensemble with an acoustic program. Sets are spread across the four days, with a focus on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Opening and Closing Processions

The spectacle begins on Thursday, May 14th, 2026, with the ceremonial opening procession at 12:15 PM — knights, minstrels, falconers, and the festival host march from the city center to the Nordwall to officially open the market. On Sunday, May 17th, 2026, the closing procession marks the end of the market at 12:15 PM.

Over 100,000 Visitors in Xanten

The Siegfriedspektakel attracts over 100,000 visitors to the town of around 21,000 inhabitants on the Lower Rhine over the four days. Xanten — known for its Roman heritage (Colonia Ulpia Traiana) and Xanten Cathedral — becomes the center of the North Rhine-Westphalian medieval scene for a weekend. The connection of the Nibelungen saga (Siegfried is traditionally associated with Xanten) and Roman history gives the event its specific character.