The program includes a parade, a music night and the anniversary of the TG 1875
The Martinsviertel district is celebrating a special anniversary this year: the 75th St. Martin's Fair take place from September 12th to 15th, 2025. This folk festival has been an integral part of Darmstadt's cultural life since 1951. It was established together with the Heinerfest (Heiner Festival) as a symbol of new beginnings after the hardships of the war and the post-war period.
The festival, popularly known as the "Watzeverdel," offers a diverse program once again in its anniversary edition. Traditional highlights such as the grand parade, the "Watzemussiggnacht" (Watze Music Night) with around 25 concerts, and the ecumenical service on Sunday will punctuate the weekend.
Opening and anniversary of the TG 1875
It all kicks off on Friday evening with a small parade to Hahne-Schorsch-Platz and the raising of the Kerb wreath. Mayor Hanno Benz officially opens the Kerb on Riegerplatz and presents the Turngemeinde 1875 Darmstadt with a plaque commemorating its 150th anniversary. The TG will receive several awards over the weekend. The band Funpluggers will provide musical accompaniment for the opening event.
Saturday program
Saturday begins with a literary theme: crime writer Michael Kibler presents "Murder and Manslaughter in the Martinsviertel." Participants will enjoy a communal stew afterward. The sporting action continues with the traditional boules tournament in the Herrngarten. Families can also look forward to the Kids' Fair, featuring juggling, face painting, and hands-on activities. Live music and DJ sets are on the program in the evening, before the "Watzemussiggnacht" (Watzemussig Night) transforms the neighborhood's restaurants into a large concert venue.
Festival Sunday with parade
On Sunday, the festival begins with an ecumenical service on Riegerplatz. A special highlight is the parade through the Martinsviertel district, starting at 2:30 p.m., during which residents are asked to keep streets clear and decorate houses. In the evening, live music on the festival grounds provides a lively atmosphere.
Conclusion on Monday
Traditionally, the festival ends on Monday – with a morning pint, anniversary free beer, twilight pint and music.
Notice for residents
The Martinsviertel district association asks all residents to keep the streets along the parade route clear on Sunday between 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. and to support the parade with decorations if possible.
Overview of the program of the 75th Martinskerb
Friday, September 12, 2025
- 6.15 p.m.: Small procession from Friedrich-Ebert-Platz to Hahne-Schorsch-Platz, raising of the Kerbekranz
- 7 p.m.: Opening on Riegerplatz with beer tapping, patron Frank Friedrich Grossmann, presentation of the honorary plaque to TG 1875, music: Funpluggers
Saturday, September 13, 2025
- 10:00 a.m.: “Murder and Manslaughter in the Martinsviertel” tour with author Michael Kibler, meeting point Hahne-Schorsch-Platz
- 1 p.m.: Stew for tour participants, Riegerplatz
- 2 p.m.: 23rd Watze Boule Tournament (Herrngartenrondell) & children's clothing flea market around St. Martin's Church
- 3 p.m.: Kids' fair on Riegerplatz, juggler Till Pöhlmann, interactive show and face painting
- 4:00 PM: DJ music, courtyard of the former Sportklause Meusel, Kranichsteiner Str. 11
- from 7 p.m.: Kolonia Express
- 7.30 p.m.: Riegerplatz fairground, band Endorphine (party rock)
- 9 p.m.: 28th Watzemussiggnacht in around 25 restaurants in the Martinsviertel
Sunday, September 14, 2025
- 10:00 a.m.: Ecumenical service on Riegerplatz, followed by a morning pint with ham and cabbage, music: DJ Tom
- 2.30 p.m.: Grand parade through the Martinsviertel, followed by the presentation of the parade medals
- 5 p.m.: Riegerplatz festival grounds, live music with Rediostix
Monday, September 15, 2025
- 11.00 a.m.: Kerbefrühschoppen in the Martinsstubb'
- 5:00–6:00 PM: Happy Hour, discounted prices at the drinks stands, 150 glasses of anniversary free beer at the TG 75 Grohe stand
- 6:00 PM: Twilight get-together at the festival grounds
The detailed program and information about the parade are available from the Martinsviertel district association .
