Dreieichenhain celebrates the 950th anniversary of its tower castle from September 11th to 13th with jousting tournaments, music and a historical market
Dreieichenhain will once again become a meeting place for medieval enthusiasts from the entire region from September 11th to 13th, 2026. The Hayner Castle Festival transforms the historic old town and the castle grounds into a vibrant setting with jousting tournaments, music, jugglers, crafts, and one of Germany's most traditional medieval markets. This year's focus is on the 950th anniversary of Dreieichenhain's tower castle, under the motto "Knights, Warriors, Tower Legends" .
For almost four decades, the Hayner Castle Festival has been one of Germany's most important medieval events. More than 100 individual events provide a diverse program over three days. Around 90 market stalls at the historic "Herrenborn" market, which was first documented almost five centuries ago, offer medieval crafts, goods, and culinary specialties.
A comprehensive cultural program awaits visitors on several stages. Highlights include performances by the medieval bands Saorsa , Schelmish , and Tamburo bant Skaldar . The duo Donnersack will provide musical entertainment on the market stage, while chrismegan will present Celtic music in the keep, followed by readings later in the evening. Spectacular fire shows by the artist group Forzarello will conclude each day of the festival .
Historical jousting tournaments are an integral part of the castle festival. This year, the Herold Flynn Team presents a new tournament spectacle that draws on the history of the 950-year-old tower castle. The starting point is a mysterious scroll that recounts a historical hostage situation and provides the framework for exciting sword fights and equestrian scenes.
Families will also find plenty to enjoy. Children can look forward to numerous hands-on activities, a historic carousel, craft workshops, as well as fairy tales and puppet theater. The program is complemented by lectures, workshops, and demonstrations of historical crafts.
The Hayner Castle Festival is organized by several hundred volunteers from Dreieichenhain's clubs and associations, thus preserving its unique, non-commercial character. One euro from every entrance fee also goes towards the upkeep of the historic castle complex.
(RED/PM)
Featured image: Archive photo, Hayner Castle Festival Friday, Michael Häfner
