Vitusmarkt Vacha with Medieval Market

Vacha on the Werra

Vacha is located on the Werra river in the Wartburg district in western Thuringia, on the border with Hesse. The small town (around 4,500 inhabitants) has a history of over 1,000 years; its city center with the market square, St. John's Church, and the Klausenkirche is characterized by its medieval architecture. During the division of Germany, Vacha was located directly on the inner-German border — the old border facilities are now part of the hiking trails around the city. On the first weekend of July, the city is in Vitusmarkt mode.

Vitusmarkt and Medieval Market — Two Concepts, One Weekend

The Vitusmarkt is a traditional market event with a two-day program. Market stalls offering regional products line the market square and adjacent alleys — Werra cheese, bratwurst, honey, wine, baked goods, handicrafts. Parallel to this runs the medieval market — costumed merchants, archery, falconry, mock combat, medieval music, spice and incense stalls. The two concepts (tradition and medieval reenactment) complement each other surprisingly well and attract a broad audience from Thuringia, Hesse, and Lower Saxony.

Live Music and Regina Ross

Live acts alternate on the Vitusmarkt stage on both days. Highlight in 2026: on Sunday, July 5th, Regina Ross will perform — the German singer with a Schlager and pop repertoire, who has gained wide recognition through appearances on radio and television (MDR, Schlagerwelt). In addition, regional bands from southern Thuringia and eastern Hesse will perform — cover bands, folk music ensembles, acoustic acts. Medieval musicians — bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, drums — will entertain the medieval market area.

Culinary Delights and Atmosphere

The festival combines three culinary worlds: regional Werra cuisine (dumplings, bratwurst, Rostbrätel, Hessian specialties), medieval cuisine (suckling pig, mead, candied almonds, cauldron soups), and modern street food offerings. Drinks range from regional beer and apple wine (Hessian influence) to mead from the medieval market. Admission to the entire festival is free.