78th Umstädter Winzerfest Groß-Umstadt

One of Hesse's most traditional wine festivals

Since 1948, the Umstädter Winzerfest has stood as the largest and most prestigious wine celebration in the Odenwald region—and one of the oldest of its kind in all of Hesse. The 78th edition will take place from September 18 to 21, 2026. The heart of the action is the town center of Groß-Umstadt, with the central Marktplatz serving as the main stage between the historic town hall and the castle, complemented by a fairground area with rides and stalls.

The Odenwälder Weininsel

Located in the Darmstadt-Dieburg district, Groß-Umstadt is the hub of the Odenwälder Weininsel. This small yet highly regarded wine region, situated where the Odenwald meets the Bergstraße climate, is celebrated for its Riesling, Müller-Thurgau, Spätburgunder, and Schwarzriesling. What makes it unique is its status as an "island" of vineyards nestled between the major wine regions of Bergstraße and Rheinhessen, boasting its own microclimate and distinct style. The wine festival serves as the annual showcase for these exceptional wines.

A Four-Day Program

The festival spans four days. The kick-off on Friday, September 18, begins at 4 PM as winemakers open their stalls. The official opening ceremony at 9 PM by Mayor René Kirch and the reigning Wine Queens marks the symbolic start, followed by an official reception for the town's twin cities. Saturday is dedicated to the coronation evening at 7:30 PM, where the new Wine Queen and her princesses are crowned—a deeply emotional highlight that draws hundreds of guests to the market square.

The Grand Parade

The undisputed highlight is the grand parade on Sunday, September 20, starting at 1:30 PM. Over 60 floats, marching bands, and local clubs wind their way through the streets of Groß-Umstadt. The floats are intricately designed, often featuring historical themes or playful nods to current local events. It is a spectacle that attracts thousands of spectators from across the region every year.

New for 2026: Reverse Route, Anniversary Glass, and Pin

The city has announced three changes for 2026. The parade will follow a reverse route for the first time: Herrnwiesenweg – Stadtgraben – Georg-August-Zinn-Straße – Obergasse – Carlo-Mierendorff-Straße – Realschulstraße – Bruchweg. The festival wine glass returns after a two-year hiatus, featuring an anniversary design and costing 4 €—wine is served exclusively in this current glass. Also new is a TraUmstadtPin for 2 €.

Farmers' Market and Accompanying Program

The main festival is preceded by a week of events. The Farmers' Market (September 12 and 13) and the 82nd Grand Wine Tasting on September 12 (4 PM) launch the week, followed by various club events, a Children's Wine Festival on September 19, and receptions for twin cities.

Wine, Music, and Tradition

The atmosphere on the market square is classic South German-Hessian: wooden benches under the sun and moon, winemakers behind their stalls, live bands and DJs on stage, and fairground stalls in the background. It is a unique blend of wine appreciation and folk festival that makes the Umstädter Winzerfest one of Germany's premier destinations for those seeking a traditional yet vibrant wine experience.