All Saints' Fair in Soest

The All Saints' Fair in Soest: a festival with history and charm!

The All Saints' Fair in Soest is an impressive folk festival with a long tradition and numerous special features. This festival, the oldest folk festival in North Rhine-Westphalia, was first mentioned in writing in 1338. It was originally celebrated to mark the consecration of St. Peter's Church, but has developed into a major event in the region over the centuries.

Opening and schedule: The fair begins every year on the first Wednesday after All Saints' Day with the ceremonial tapping of the barrel by the mayor of Soest. The streets of the old town are then filled for several days with a million visitors who enjoy the special atmosphere between the half-timbered houses and historic buildings.

Traditional highlights: On Thursday morning, the traditional horse market is on the agenda, a highlight that looks back on a long history. In the past, the “bull's eye” was also played at the fair, where the weight of a live bull was estimated. Today, “horse guessing” has replaced this tradition.

Another special feature is the “Dudelmann”, a historical figure who plays an important role at the fair. The Pottmarkt, a traditional funfair, completes the offer and allows visitors to immerse themselves in times gone by.

A festival for everyone: year after year, the All Saints' Fair delights both locals and visitors from afar. Its mixture of tradition, history and lively festival atmosphere makes it an unmissable experience in the region.