Things to Do in Wittenberg · Events
From June 11 to 13, 2027, Lutherstadt Wittenberg transforms into a vibrant stage celebrating life in the 16th century.
Once a year, the entire town of Wittenberg comes alive with the sights and sounds of the 16th century. Luther's Wedding (Luthers Hochzeit) is the largest town festival in Central Germany and one of the most impressive historical festivals in the country. Thousands of visitors from around the world gather to celebrate the marriage of Martin Luther and Katharina von Bora – and Johanniterhaus Wittenberg is located right in the heart of the festivities.
Wittenberg becomes a vibrant festival town: With historical costumes, traditional craftsmanship, bustling markets and an exciting entertainment programme, visitors can experience history firsthand – not in a museum, but right in the streets.
The History Behind the Festival
In 1525, Martin Luther married Katharina von Bora, a former nun who had escaped from her convent. Their marriage caused quite a stir at the time and helped shape the image of Protestant ministers for centuries to come. St. Mary's Church (Stadtkirche St. Marien) was the setting for this historic wedding, which is still celebrated today with a spectacular annual festival.
For more than 30 years, the festival has taken place on the weekend around June 13. The 2027 edition promises an extensive programme combining historical traditions with modern festival entertainment.
The 2027 Programme – Three Days of Living History
From June 11 to 13, 2027, more than 30 historical associations will bring the streets, narrow lanes and picturesque courtyards of Wittenberg's Old Town to life. Four themed areas – Trade, Crafts, Entertainment and Family Activities – invite visitors to discover the Reformation in a completely new way.
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Friday, June 11 – Opening Ceremony and Welcome of the Wedding Couple
From 5:00 PM, the streets of Wittenberg come alive with colourful festivities. Martin Luther and Katharina von Bora make their grand appearance before their guests, cheered on by friends and historical figures dressed in 16th-century costumes.
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Saturday, June 12 – Grand Historical Wedding Parade
Starting at 2:00 PM, the magnificent wedding procession makes its way through the Old Town. Martin Luther, Katharina von Bora and approximately 2,000 wedding guests in historical costumes take part in this spectacular parade – the highlight of the entire festival.
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Sunday, June 13 – Family Day and Children's Parade
At 10:30 AM, the children's Luther couple ceremoniously cuts the wedding cake in the Lutherhof courtyard. At 11:00 AM, around 400 children from local clubs, kindergartens and schools participate in the historical children's parade, making their way along Collegienstraße to the Market Square.
Tickets & Admission Prices
3-Day Ticket
€25.00
Adults (Standard Admission)
Early Bird Ticket
€20.00
Advance sales from April 15
Sunday Ticket
€12.00
Family Day Admission
Children
Free Admission
Children aged 14 and under enter free of charge.
Tickets are available online and at numerous advance booking locations throughout Wittenberg, including the Tourist Information Centre, Sparkasse Wittenberg and the Cranach Foundation.
Students aged 15–17 receive discounted admission upon presentation of a valid student ID.
Why Johanniterhaus Wittenberg Is the Perfect Place to Stay
If you want to experience Luther's Wedding to the fullest, staying overnight in Wittenberg is highly recommended. The atmosphere in the historic Old Town is especially magical during the festival evenings.
Johanniterhaus Wittenberg is within easy walking distance of all festival locations, offering peaceful and comfortable accommodation right in the heart of the celebrations. This means you can enjoy the festivities without worrying about long journeys or transportation.
Our tip: Book your accommodation early! Hotels and guesthouses in Wittenberg tend to fill up quickly during this popular annual festival.
More Information & Tickets
Official Luther's Wedding Website
Next Festival: June 11–13, 2027
Following Year: June 10–12, 2028
