Tutzinger Fischerhochzeit

A Traditional Festival with Historic Roots

The Tutzinger Fischerhochzeit harks back to the village's origins as a fishing settlement on the western shore of Lake Starnberg. It tells the story of the historic wedding of 1812: during the Napoleonic era, the Tutzing farmer's son Michael Gröber returns home after years away on the Russian campaign and can finally marry Veronika Bierbichler, the daughter of a fishing master from the other side of the lake. The concept and text of the play were created by local historian Jose Franz Drummer (1887–1959).

Tradition and History

The Fischerhochzeit was first performed in 1929 with many local actors, repeated in 1935, and staged again in 1953. In 1975, the municipality of Tutzing, together with the local and traditional costume association »Tutzinger Gilde« and tradition-conscious families, permanently revived the play. Since then, the Fischerhochzeit has been celebrated approximately every five years. What makes it special: all actors are Tutzing citizens, and the bridal couple must descend from an old fishing family.

Course of the Festival

The play ranges from wedding preparations and the Polterabend (pre-wedding party) with dance performances to the wedding day itself, featuring the bridal reception at the »Tutzinger Lände« by the steamboat pier, followed by a festive church service. The multi-day festival is accompanied by an extensive music and entertainment program, as well as a colorful parade in historical costumes.

Location on Lake Starnberg

Tutzing is located in the district of Starnberg (Upper Bavaria) on the western shore of Lake Starnberg. The lake scenery with the Alps in the background lends the festival its special charm and attracts around 10,000 visitors.