The medieval town of Ribeauvillé in the wine-producing region of Alsace is a former feudal town that each year celebrates a historical event called “Pfifferdaj” or “Fête des Ménétriers” (Fiddler’s Festival). It is the oldest Alsatian festival and has been held for more than 600 years. It started out as a major annual gathering of fiddlers when the lords of Ribeaupierre ruled over the village. Taking place on the first weekend of September, the Pfifferdaj is a medieval festival that pays tribute to the guild of the minstrels (minstrels, musicians, acrobats, etc.), which was headquartered in Ribeauvillé and was under the protection of the lords of Ribeaupierre in the Middle Ages. Today, it has become a leading festival enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
During the 2-day event, visitors can enjoy medieval traditions and markets and be entertained by numerous parades, musical acts, and street performers, starting at 10:00 on Saturday morning. Saturday night will be marked by a torch-lit procession with the participation of musical groups, starting at 20:30 from the Place de la République to the Ribeauvillé town garden (lanterns will be distributed to the participating children). Sunday will begin with a wake-up call by the Ménestrels de l’Harmonie Vogésia at 9:00 from the Butcher’s Tower (gates in the town center), followed by musical entertainment and street performers. The main parade begins at 15:00—a procession of floats, fanfares, jugglers, fire-eaters, and hundreds of extra participants, all dressed in medieval costumes. At the end of the procession there will be a free public wine tasting at the fountain of the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville (offered by the local wine syndicate) and a public ball in the Ribeauvillé town garden.
The beautiful town of Ribeauvillé is located about 1 hour from Basel and is well worth the drive.

Website
visit.alsace/en/229000471-pfifferdaj-the-fiddlers-festival/

Where
Place de la République
68150 Ribeauvillé
France

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