Stadtfest Waltershausen

Waltershausen — the small town on the Thuringian Forest

Waltershausen is located on the northern edge of the Thuringian Forest, in the Gotha district. With around 13,000 inhabitants, the town is one of the region's smaller district towns — but with a great tradition: Tenneberg Castle above the town testifies to its former residence status, and the historic old town between Klaustor and Marktplatz is a listed building and well-preserved. The annual Stadtfest is one of the largest Volksfeste (popular festivals) in the Gotha district.

Three days of festival mile

The concept is classic — and has been successful for years: A festival mile through the historic city center connects the central squares and streets, several stages are spread out at strategic points, and market stalls line the alleys. Live music of various genres — from rock and pop to folk music and Schlager — creates a lively atmosphere during the day and in the evening. During the day, family visits with amusement rides and children's programs dominate, while in the evening, concerts and gastronomic offerings take over.

2026 — new mayor, new accents

The 2026 edition gains an additional dimension: The festival coincides with the first city festival under the new mayor. In a public call in 2025, the city administration already invited traders, artisans, restaurateurs, and amusement ride operators to participate in 2026 — a sign that the mix of traditional elements and new ideas is being nurtured. The city center from Klaustor to Marktplatz remains the venue: compact enough for all visitors to reach the entire program on foot.

Gotha district in the Thuringian Forest

In the state of Thuringia, Gotha district, the Waltershausen Stadtfest complements a dense festival calendar: from the Gotha Stadtfest to the Friedrichroda Lichterfest (Festival of Lights) and the Bratwurstkirmes (Bratwurst Fair) in Friedrichroda. Those who visit Waltershausen in June often combine the Stadtfest with an excursion to the Schloss Tenneberg hill or a day in the nearby Thuringian Forest (Inselsberg, Marienglashöhle).