Sonnwendfeier Königstein

Sonnwendfeier — Living Traditional Custom in the Upper Palatinate

The summer solstice around June 21st has been an important date in the annual calendar in Bavaria for centuries. The Sonnwendfeuer (Midsummer bonfire) celebrates the longest night of the year — a custom that is particularly cherished in the Upper Palatinate. In Königstein, a small market town in the district of Amberg-Sulzbach, the local group of the Wasserwacht Königstein (BRK District Association Amberg-Sulzbach) has been organizing the local Sonnwendfeier for many years. The venue is the "Am Bergl" Water Rescue hut, above Königstein's natural swimming pool.

An Important Event for the Association

For the Wasserwacht Königstein, which ensures swimming operations at the natural pool with over 1300 hours of voluntary service per year, the Sonnwendfeier is much more than a summer festival: The proceeds significantly contribute to the financing of the local group. Without this festival, as stated officially, the natural pool could no longer be operated in its current form. So, anyone who attends directly supports water rescue in the Königstein region.

Hut and Mobile Grill Cart

The Water Rescue hut on the Bergl has been renovated in recent years with new tiles and a new stove and can also be rented for private parties. For the Sonnwendfeier, the mobile grill cart is used, a joint project of the Water Rescue with the local traditional costume association. This guarantees hearty catering with grilled dishes, drinks, and a small selection of sweets — typical Upper Palatinate association festival atmosphere.

Königstein — Land of Mountain Festivals in the Amberg-Sulzbach Region

Königstein belongs to the Amberg-Sulzbach region, an area with a vibrant tradition of mountain festivals (Bergfeste). From the Bergl, there is a wide view over the hilly landscape of the northern Upper Palatinate. In clear weather, the bonfire pile is lit during the Sonnwendfeier, the fire burns late into the night — music and singing are naturally part of it.

What to Expect

• Classic Sonnwendfeier with a large bonfire pile and campfire
• Catering from the Water Rescue's mobile grill cart
• Family-friendly — Starts in the afternoon
• Direct contribution to the maintenance of the Water Rescue and the Königstein natural pool
• Free admission