Heidelberger Herbst

Performer in the opening parade

On the last Saturday of ever September, Heidelberg celebrates the fall season with the "Heidelberger Herbst". From 11 o'clock through the night, there are celebrations, flea markets, and bands set up through out the Altstadt (Old City) in Heidelberg. At 11 o'clock, the day starts with small parade consisting of the the Mayor of Heidelberg, the Queen of Wine, the Perkeo (the first court dwarf/butler in Heidelberg), and flag bearers waving the flag of Heidelberg.


Along both sides of the Hauptstraße, there are booths selling traditional German clothes and artisan craft work. You can find anything from Lederhosen to original artwork. Also along the Hauptstaße (and around all of the Alt Stadt) are booths selling traditional German food. The first thing one notices while walking through the Alt Stadt are the smells. There are Würste (sausages), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), french fries, roasted pig, baking bread, and so many other delicious smells. The Hauptstraße is also crowded with all kinds of people including those dressed in traditional German clothing.

Food stand selling Lebkuchen and candy

The folk-band "Dudelzwerge"

If you move along the Hauptstraße to Universitätsplatz, you will find the square is dedicated to Medieval Germany. All the people who work there, and many who are visiting there, are dressed in Medieval clothing. Many of the food stalls have outdoor ovens, and you can watch them baking the bread and cooking the food over an open fire. There are medieval style games for children and artisan products such as homemade soap or traditional clothing for adults.This area also has many stalls that sell beer and wine from local breweries. There are plenty of places to sit while you enjoy your food and drink while listening to local bands.

Once the festivities in the Alt Stadt are finished (around 11 p.m.) you can still stay out and have fun at the Heidelberger after party. The After Party has live DJs, food and drink, and a dance floor. There are free shuttles that run from the party to main areas of the city. The Party runs from midnight until four in the morning.