Durkheim Sausages Fair
What is the Durkheim Sausages Fair?
The Durkheim Sausage Fair, known locally as the Wurstmarkt, is one of the largest and oldest folk festivals in Germany, held annually in the picturesque town of Bad Dürkheim. This lively event, which takes place over two weekends in September, is famous not only for its vast array of sausages but also for celebrating the region’s rich wine culture. Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the Durkheim Sausage Fair is a vibrant mix of culinary delights, traditional entertainment, and cultural heritage, offering an authentic taste of German festivity.
History of the Durkheim Sausage Fair
The origins of the Durkheim Sausage Fair date back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest fairs in Germany. Initially, it began as a pilgrimage fair, where people gathered at the Michelsberg Chapel to honor Saint Michael. Over time, the fair evolved, and by the 15th century, it had transformed into a marketplace where local farmers and butchers sold their goods, particularly sausages, which gave the fair its distinctive name.
Today, the Durkheim Sausage Fair is much more than just a market. It is a celebration of local traditions and community, with wine from the renowned vineyards of the Palatinate region playing a central role. The fair features a wide range of activities, from wine tastings in cozy wine tents to thrilling rides and live music, making it a must-visit event for both locals and tourists alike.
What to Expect at the Fair
Visitors to the Durkheim Sausage Fair can expect a lively atmosphere filled with the aromas of grilled sausages, roasted meats, and freshly baked pretzels. The fairgrounds are lined with food stalls offering a variety of traditional German sausages, such as bratwurst, currywurst, and more, each paired perfectly with local wines or beers.
The fair is also known for its wine culture, with several large wine tents where visitors can sample the best wines from the Palatinate region, including Riesling, Spätburgunder, and Silvaner. These wine tents are a central feature of the fair, offering a convivial setting where people can enjoy wine by the glass or bottle, accompanied by traditional German music and folk performances.
In addition to food and drink, the Durkheim Sausage Fair offers a variety of entertainment options, including carnival rides, games, and live performances. The event also features a historic barrel race, where participants roll wine barrels through the town’s streets, adding a unique and playful element to the festivities.
Looking to Travel to the Durkheim Sausage Fair?
If you’re planning to attend the Durkheim Sausage Fair, flying is the most convenient way to reach Bad Dürkheim, especially if you’re coming from outside Germany.
Getting There by Air
Nearest Airports:
- Frankfurt Airport (FRA):
Frankfurt Airport, located about 90 kilometers northeast of Bad Dürkheim, is the closest major international airport. As one of the busiest airports in Europe, Frankfurt offers numerous direct flights from cities around the world, making it the most convenient entry point for international visitors. - Stuttgart Airport (STR):
Stuttgart Airport is another option, located approximately 140 kilometers southeast of Bad Dürkheim. While slightly farther away, Stuttgart also offers a range of domestic and international flights, particularly from European destinations.
Connecting to Bad Dürkheim from the Airports:
- From Frankfurt Airport (FRA):
Upon arriving at Frankfurt Airport, the easiest way to reach Bad Dürkheim is by train. From the airport, take an S-Bahn (suburban train) to Mannheim, where you can transfer to a regional train directly to Bad Dürkheim. The total journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, renting a car at the airport allows for a direct drive to Bad Dürkheim via the A67 and A6 highways, which takes approximately 1 hour. - From Stuttgart Airport (STR):
If you fly into Stuttgart Airport, you can take a train to Mannheim and then transfer to a regional train to Bad Dürkheim. The total travel time is around 2.5 to 3 hours. Driving from Stuttgart to Bad Dürkheim takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic, with a scenic route through the Swabian and Palatinate regions.
Tips for Air Travel:
- Booking Flights:
September is a busy time for travel to Bad Dürkheim due to the fair, so it’s advisable to book your flights early. Frankfurt Airport offers the widest range of flight options, especially for international travelers. - Airport Transfers:
Consider pre-booking your train tickets or car rental to streamline your journey from the airport to Bad Dürkheim, especially if you’re arriving during peak travel times.
Visa Information
If you’re traveling to Germany from outside the European Union, you may need a visa. Germany is part of the Schengen Area, so travelers from countries requiring a Schengen visa should apply well in advance. Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
For specific visa requirements and application details, consult the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
Conclusion
The Durkheim Sausage Fair offers a unique opportunity to experience one of Germany’s oldest and most beloved traditions. With easy access via Frankfurt or Stuttgart airports, attending this lively event is straightforward, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the culinary delights, wine culture, and festive atmosphere of Bad Dürkheim. Plan your trip ahead of time, and prepare to enjoy a true taste of German heritage.