Wendelskirmes with Pilgrimage Week

Pilgrimage and Fair for Centuries

Few festivals in Saarland combine religious heritage and secular folk celebration as closely as the Wendelskirmes in the district town of St. Wendel. At its heart is the pilgrimage to Saint Wendelin, an Irish prince who, according to legend, lived here as a hermit and shepherd in the 7th century and later became the patron saint of shepherds, farmers, and travelers. His veneration at the Wendelinus Basilica (a UNESCO tentative site in Saarland) has been unbroken since the Middle Ages.

Pilgrimage Week Under a New Motto

The pilgrimage week for the 2026 festival week runs under the motto "Seeking God like St. Wendelin." It begins on the opening day with a high mass and the solemn unveiling of the shrine, followed by eight themed pilgrimage days — including the Day of People with Disabilities and the Feast Day of St. Wendelin (also Family Day).

Wendelsmarkt — One of the Largest Markets in Saarland

The highlight of the festival week market is the Wendelsmarkt on the feast day (October 20th) in the pedestrian zone of St. Wendel. Hundreds of stalls from all over Saarland and the adjacent Palatinate region offer clothing, household goods, leather goods, regional specialties, sweets, and toys. For generations, it has been an important day in the shopping calendar for many residents of the district.

Amusement Park at the Bosenbach Festival Grounds

Parallel to the pilgrimage, the amusement park operates at the Bosenbach festival grounds with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, carousels, bumper cars, and over 50 other rides and stalls. Party bands like Firma Holunder and Krachleder provide the atmosphere in the festival tent; the Oktoberfest is organized by FC Blau-Weiß St. Wendel e.V.

Sunday Shopping

On one Sunday during the festival week, the shops in the city center open from 1 PM to 6 PM (Sunday shopping) — many visitors combine shopping, the market, and the fair for a relaxed family day.

Finale with Fireworks

The festive conclusion takes place on the last Sunday with the "Fair Finale with Fireworks" around 8:30 PM — one of the most beautiful fireworks traditions of the Saarland autumn. Those who visit the Bosenbach festival grounds in the evening have a clear view over the city and the valley.

St. Wendel — Place of Pilgrimage and District Capital

St. Wendel is the district capital in the north of Saarland and a pilgrimage destination since the Middle Ages. The Wendelinus Basilica with its three-towered west facade is one of the most beautiful sacred buildings in Saarland. Visitors to the Wendelskirmes should take time for the basilica — and for a walk at Bostalsee, one of Saarland's largest recreational lakes just a few kilometers away.