Wehlheider Kirmes

A Fair with its Own Character

Until 1899, Wehlheiden was an independent municipality on the outskirts of Kassel and has maintained a strong sense of pride in its own traditions even after being incorporated. The Wehlheider Kirmes is an expression of this identity. It has been celebrated continuously since 1949 after World War II – initially in the district's inns, then in the community hall, and since 1966 on Georg-Stock-Platz, which gives the festival its authentic village character.

Kirmesburschen, Kirmesmädchen, and the Mayor Couple

The heart of the fair isn't the rides – which traditionally seem a bit more subdued here than at modern folk festivals – but the costume tradition. The Kirmesburschen and Kirmesmädchen wear the typical blue Hessian traditional costume and are the organizational and symbolic backbone of the festival. Furthermore, in a satirical yet festive tradition, a Mayor Couple is elected each year – a nod to Wehlheiden's independent past.

Wagenrunge and Lantern Festival

Two other symbols define the festival. The Wagenrunge – the wooden post on traditional horse-drawn wagons – is a club symbol and identifying mark. And on Monday evening, the Lampionfest (lantern festival) proceeds through the streets of Wehlheiden starting at 9 p.m.: a quiet, atmospheric procession with illuminated lanterns, contrasting with the loud hustle and bustle on the fairgrounds.

Four Days of Festival Program

The fair runs for four days: Friday opening in the late afternoon with the ceremonial tapping of the first beer keg in the district's traditional pubs. Saturday is the big day with the parade at 3:30 p.m. through Schönfelder Straße, Wilhelmshöher Allee, and Wittrockstraße to the Wehlheider Kreuz – one of the largest costume and club parades in Kassel. Afterwards, the new Mayor Couple is presented. Sunday features an ecumenical service, folk music, and a charity beer tapping. Monday is Children's Day, Senior Afternoon, and the Lantern Festival to round things off.

Kassel-Wehlheiden — A Grown Identity

Wehlheiden is located in the west of Kassel, on the slopes towards Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe. The district has around 19,000 inhabitants and has retained its village atmosphere through active club life and events like the Kirmes – in contrast to the big city of Kassel.