Unterdorfer Kirchweih Thalmässing

Classic Middle Franconian Kirchweih

The Unterdorfer Kirchweih in Thalmässing is one of the traditional Kirchweihen (church consecration festivals) in the Roth district, in southern Middle Franconia. The festival lasts four days, traditionally takes place on the third weekend of August, and is organized by the Unterdorfer Kerwamoidla and -buam – a traditional costume and customs group that carries the festival with great care.

Kerwabaum, Dance, Küchle

Among the highlights is the erection of the Kerwabaum on Saturday in the market square and the subsequent dance of the Kerwamoidla and Kerwabuam around the pole, in Franconian traditional costume. In the evening, the market square becomes a continuous festival zone – atmosphere, dancing, parties, and live music until late at night. The Kirchweih also includes the traditional Küchle tradition: the baking and distribution of small Franconian star-shaped pastries, which are typically served at every Kerwa in the region.

What to expect

• Four days of Kerwa from Friday to Monday
• Erection of the Kerwabaum on Saturday
• Dance of the Kerwamoidla and -buam in Franconian traditional costume
• Festival tent with live music and party bands
• Küchle tradition, Franconian bratwurst, Kirchweih delicacies
• Parade on Sunday through the Unterdorf

Thalmässing in the Roth District

Thalmässing is a market town in the southern Middle Franconian district of Roth, south of Roth and northeast of Eichstätt, nestled in the hilly landscape of the Franconian Jura. The market community adheres to a series of Kirchweihen and markets – the Unterdorfer Kerwa is considered by many locals to be the most important summer event, where clubs, traditional costumes, and festival catering combine to create a typical Franconian folk customs festival.