Spangdahlem
Come out for the medieval castle festival in Manderscheid
Burgenverein Manderscheid e.V.
August 4, 2026
During the last weekend of August, the lower castle comes alive for the medieval castle festival. (Burgenverein Manderscheid e.V.)
Near the Eifel town of Manderscheid lie the ruins of the upper and lower castles. Their history and location reflect the medieval conflict of interests between the Electorate of Trier and the Duchy of Luxembourg.
During the last weekend of August, the lower castle comes alive for the medieval castle festival. Thousands of visitors flock to the castle to experience the Middle Ages in an authentic setting.
Thousands of visitors flock to the castle to experience the Middle Ages in an authentic setting. (Fotografie Winter )
Vendors present their wares, including wooden swords, flower wreaths, medieval clothing, mead, and much more. Stilt walkers, witches, jugglers, and musicians stroll the grounds to entertain the guests.
One of the crowd favorites is the jousting competition. Knights on horseback present this jousting competition twice a day.
On Saturday night, the day closes with a spectacular fireworks display over the lower castle grounds.
One of the crowd favorites is the jousting competition. Knights on horseback present this jousting competition twice a day. (Burgenverein Manderscheid e.V.)
Immerse yourself in the history of the Middle Ages at this authentic location. Meet Graf Dietrich and his wife Elisabeth as they preside over the festival. This kid-friendly event will keep you entertained throughout the day. Enjoy some ice cream or a freshly baked waffle made on an old-fashioned waffle iron. Of course, you can also choose from heartier food options, such as a grilled pork steak, a spiral-cut fried potato, fresh grilled mushrooms, or a stew served in a bread bowl.
The medieval castle festival has taken place in Manderscheid for over 40 years. Visitors from as far away as Australia and Brazil have joined us for this event. Many families return year after year.
Immerse yourself in the history of the Middle Ages at this authentic location. (Fotografie Winter)
Manderscheid is located about 25 minutes (22 km) from Spangdahlem Airbase and 1 hour and 30 min (150 km) from Kaiserslautern off the Autobahn A1. Be sure to park at the designated park ‘n ride spots and take the shuttle buses.
Mark your calendars for this year’s festival on August 29 and 30, 2026, and enjoy a unique experience at an authentic location you and your children will remember for years to come.