Viktorkirmes Dülmen

Dülmen — Western Münsterland Town with a Festival Tradition

Dülmen is located in the Coesfeld district in western Münsterland, about 35 km west of Münster. With around 47,000 inhabitants, Dülmen is a medium-sized town with a historic market square, the famous Wildpark (wildlife park) with the Dülmen horses, and a strong festival culture. The Viktorkirmes is one of the annual folk festivals — named after the St. Victor parish, which historically organized the town festival.

Second Weekend of October

The 2026 fair runs from Friday, October 9th to Monday, October 12th — over four days. Set against the backdrop of the golden Münsterland autumn with vibrant beech forests and early misty mornings, the fair has its own autumnal charm — lights, mulled wine stands, warm pretzels, and the familiar fair buzz under clear October skies.

Rides and Food Stalls in the City Centre

Showmen from Münsterland and beyond set up their rides and stalls in Dülmen's city centre: the market square and surrounding streets transform into a festive choreography of carousels, shooting galleries, candy stalls, classic snacks (fries, currywurst, potato pancakes), and drink stands. Classic fair attractions as well as more modern rides.

Market on the Weekend

This is part of the Münsterland fair tradition: on Saturday and Sunday, the Krammarkt (market) runs parallel to the fair — market stalls offering textiles, tools, leather goods, regional products, and household items. Those who want to combine a fair visit with shopping should plan for the weekend.

Sunday Opening Hours — October 11th

On Sunday, October 11th, Dülmen's shops participate with Sunday opening hours (1:00 PM–6:00 PM). This has been a key element of the Viktorkirmes for years: a fair visit, market, and shopping in an integrated choreography. The city centre fills up at midday and remains lively until late in the evening.

Family Day on Monday — Reduced Prices

Monday, October 12th is Family Day. Showmen offer reduced prices on rides and family tickets — intended for families spending the day in town during the week or on a school holiday Monday. A proven tradition that distinguishes the Viktorkirmes from a purely weekend fair.

Opening Hours

• Friday, 09/10. — 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
• Saturday, 10/10. — 2:00 PM to 12:00 AM
• Sunday, 11/10. — 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (with Sunday opening hours 1 PM–6 PM)
• Monday, 12/10. — 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Family Day)

Visit Dülmen

For those who want to extend their fair visit: the Dülmen Wildlife Park with the famous Dülmen horses (the oldest wild horse breed in Central Europe), the local history museum, the Holy Family Chapel, and St. Victor's Cathedral. Dülmen is accessible via the Münster-Essen train line — a good day trip from the Ruhr area or Münsterland.