Museumsfest 2026: Thousands Celebrate at the Fortress
Nearly 6,000 visitors spent Sunday at the Marienberg Fortress.
The Museumfest, organized by the Museum für Franken and the Würzburg Castle and Garden Administration, was once again a huge draw. In late-summer weather, families, castle enthusiasts, and history buffs flocked to the two front courtyards of the fortress. “It’s wonderful how many people came to the fortress to celebrate with us,” says Veronika Genslein, deputy director of the Museum für Franken, delighted by the high turnout.
Her conclusion: “What was especially nice for us was the consistently positive feedback from our visitors. The atmosphere couldn’t have been better—and the weather on Sunday was perfect, too.” A diverse program awaited guests at the fortress from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Reenactment groups such as the “Rotwelsche Haufen,” the dance group “Samt und Seide,” and the fencing and sword-fighting demonstrations by Thomas Hönle’s troupe added a touch of historical flair. Centered around the theme of the special exhibition “Geht Grad° so? Climate in Lower Franconia,” the event featured guided tours, upcycling workshops, and craft stations—such as those for building insect hotels or mini-catapults.
The Würzburg Castle and Garden Administration led tours of the fortress and, in addition to an information booth, set up large wooden games. There were also various vendor booths selling food and handicrafts. A new feature this year was the free shuttle service in the morning from the main train station to the fortress and back; alternatively, the fortress was accessible via the Kulturlinie 9 bus route.
The museum team is pleased with the event. “What makes this day so special is the dedication of so many people: Without the support of various groups, our partners, volunteers, and staff, this festival would not have been possible,” said Genslein. The Museumsfest has become a firm fixture on Würzburg’s cultural calendar. In previous years, an average of over 5,000 visitors attended the museum festival each year. “We’re already looking forward to next year,” says Genslein.
