Kirwa

A tradition that is carefully maintained in Amberg-Sulzbacher is the Kirwa. In the Land of 100 Kirwa Festivals, the people of Amberg-Sulzbacher look forward to "their" hometown festival every year. The tradition of the Oberpfalz Kirwa has survived in a uniquely diverse way in our region. The “trachten” (traditional clothing) are colourful; the rituals that have been passed down through old traditions are carefully followed. There are even special songs for the Kirwa, the "Schnodahipfln". The cheeky rhyming songs tell of desire and love, work and hardship, and are bursting with the very energy of life And no Kirwa can be without the "Baierische" (a traditional dance). Court cases have even been fought over this complicated dance. When, for example, the brass band wasn't able to play the Baierische as "crisply" as it was supposed to be played. The rhythm changes suddenly and quickly in a Baierische. Only experts are able to lead their partners smoothly over the dance floor. The Baierische is not meant for dancing, but for living! All dates: www.kirwa-gemeinde.de.

A Kirwa consits of:

The tree

It is the emblem of every Kirwa. The bark is carved and wreaths are tied and beautifully decorated.

Church service

A special Kirwa service is held before each Kirwa.

The couples

Where a Kirwa tree is "danced out", couples are needed. From the age of 16 and if at least one part of the couple comes from the village/parish, you may actively dance yourself.

Traditional costumes

You can see traditional costumes of all kinds, but every now and then you see the typical Upper Palatinate costume, where the guys wear black suit pants, white shirt and hat.

The beer

Bavaria and beer belong together, especially at the Kirwa.

The sausages

Bratwurst and beer - an inseparable duo.

Pastries

This specialty called "Küchel" must not be missing.

The music

Traditional & danceable.

The guests

Feel like it?

All dates