Naumburg celebrates the cherry festival: tradition and history combined!

Naumburg celebrates the cherry festival: tradition and history combined!

While the cherries are ripe in Naumburg, the city once again becomes the setting for one of Germany's most traditional festivals, the Cherry Festival. On June 27, 2025, residents and visitors will celebrate the history that dates back to 1432. Historians do not entirely agree whether the origin of the festival is based on a true story or an invention by Naumburg merchants; But one thing is certain: the legend surrounding the Hussite general Andreas Prokop is not just one of the many esoteric fairy tales, but has been anchored as a cultural heritage for centuries.

The story tells of a dramatic siege of Naumburg by the Hussites, which took place in revenge for Naumburg Bishop Gerhard von Goch's consent to the execution of the reformer Jan Hus. At the moment when the situation for the Naumburgers was tense and hunger and the danger of epidemics were avoided, a teacher developed a courageous idea: He led his students in white death shirts in front of the besieging Hussite army to plead for the children's lives. This shocking gesture touched Procopius, who gave the children cherries and then agreed to lift the siege. So the Cherry Festival became an annual commemoration of this courageous event, carried by the air of the city and the song of the festival that sings of history

Tradition and celebrations

The Cherry Festival is a true delight for the senses and one of the most beautiful festivals in Central Germany. The festival is celebrated annually on the Vogelwiese, where various Naumburg clubs organize activities and set up festival tents. The highlight of the festival is the historical parade, which parades through the streets of Naumburg and attracts many volunteers as performers. In particular, the scenic representation of the herald and Procopius scene on the market square is an absolute must. Here the truce is symbolized by teaching a cup of wine, which represents a sporting challenge in the high summer temperatures.

The roots of this celebration go back to the 16th century, as old council accounts show. In the 17th century, the festival was associated with the Hussite siege. There are always reports in the traditions about the children in their white shirts, who have made it to the core of the folk festival to this day. These stories come to life at the Cherry Festival and attract not only locals but also tourists from far away.

A feast for all senses

The cherry festival is a feast for the eyes and ears, but also for the palate. From sweet cherries to savory food, there are numerous delicacies that make the festival a culinary experience. The celebration lasts late into the night with cool drinks and cheerful music. The Cherry Festival not only provides an opportunity to gather together, but is also a celebration of community that has endured through the ages.

In summary, the Cherry Festival is much more than just a celebration; it is a living piece of history that the people of Naumburg don't want to miss. The large historical parade and the Peter and Paul Mass reflect the appreciation that this tradition is held in. A festival that carries on a part of its history with every cherry that is eaten and makes the heart of the city shine.