The Soest Kirmes is one of the largest fairs in Germany and it takes place every November. The streets of Soest Old Town change into festival vibes with traditional stalls of delicious food and exciting rides.
The town has been celebrating this for over 685 years and brings the people of Westphalia together to celebrate.
I always used to hear a lot about the Kirmes in Soest, Germany from my wife as she had studied in Soest and used to go to Kirmes every year. We decided to go together to Kirmes in Soest.
History of Soest Kirmes:
The event started as a consecrated on All Saints' Day at St. Petri, Soest's oldest church, and allowed the people to enjoy and provide an opportunity for merchants to come for trade from the neighboring cities and countries like Münster, Hesse, Holland, Scandinavia, and the Baltic States. The Soesnt Kirmes dates back to to the 12th century, with the first written record in 1338.
How to Reach Soest Kirmes:
Soest is located near Dortmund, and it's possible to take a train from Dortmund to Soest, Germany. The journey takes just 45 minutes, with direct RE trains available. However, be aware that during the Kirmes, trains are usually crowded as many people travel to Soest from surrounding cities and towns for Kirmes.
Kirmes Festivity in Soest:
Soest is a small town in North Rhine Westphalia with amazing architecture and significant historical importance. It's also famous for its university, where lots of international students study.
The Soest Kirmes is indeed one of the largest Old Town fairs in Europe, making it a must-see event. Almost a million people visit Soest where the population of the town is 50,000. The Kirmes has 400 Stalls, 40 rides and all set up in the old town of Soest. The Kirmes usually takes place during the first week of November and lasts for almost five days.
Our Experience at Kirmes Festivity in Soest:
To be honest, I didn't have high expectations before going to the Kirmes. But when we stepped out of the train station in Soest, I was completely stunned. The old town was fully decorated with lights, thrilling rides, game stands, and food stalls.
Must-Ride Attractions at Soest Kirmes:
1. Jules Verne Tower
On the right side of the train station, there was a ride called the Jules Verne Tower. It was about 50-60 meters high and lifted riders to the top at a speed of 2 meters per second. The view from the top was unforgettable — we had a bird's-eye view of the entire Soest Kirmes.
2. Mr. Gravity
As we moved further, the next ride was Mr. Gravity. It featured a heavy rotation with multiple rotating plates. The speed increased both clockwise and counter-clockwise. It was totally insane, but I loved it.
3. Hard Rock Drive
Here comes our favorite ride, the 'Hard Rock Drive.' It was like bumper cars, but with over 20 disco-themed cars and great music.
We bumped our car into others as much as we could. It reminded me of my childhood and was so much fun. Highly recommended that you visit Soest Kirmes.
4. Merry-go-round
My next ride was looping the loop. It was like a merry-go-round in a monkey cage. Basically, the ride is for kids, but it’s always fun to be young again.
5. Archery at Kirmes
Time to show some archery skills! I’m an expert in archery, having practiced it since college and participated in many competitions during my student life. I shot four arrows, and three of them hit the bull’s eye. However, when I shot the fourth arrow, two of the bull’s eyes fell down, so unfortunately, I didn’t win a big prize. I only received a YO-YO.
6. Shooting at Kirmes
There were so many shooting stalls as well. There was also a chance to win stuffed toys. It was a bit difficult game – I was supposed to shoot the small buttons.
I had tried my luck but was not so successful, but it is always fun to try these types of activities.
There was also a stall for hitting the ball and dropping the tins. There were so many kids who were trying to drop the tins by hitting the ball. I must say it is a bit difficult game for the kids, but still, I can see the happiness and joy on their faces.
7. Sky Wheel
There was also a huge Sky Wheel which has open and closed sky cabins. I took the ride and enjoyed the amazing panoramic view of the whole city.
On one side, there were so many lights, stalls, rides, and people, while on the other side, there was the view of a Gothic church.
8. Daemonium
The most exciting ride for both kids and adults was Daemonium—it was one of the best. The concept is similar to a haunted house, where you enter by train. Inside, you’ll encounter terrifying ghosts that can really frighten you. I challenge you to take this ride!
9. Mine Tower
The next ride was Mine Tower. OMG!!! The ride was around 80 meters high and took us slowly upward. When it reached the top, there was a thrilling free fall. If you want to enjoy a spectacular view of Soest with a thrill, this is the ride for you.
10. Nessy
Nessy is a giant monster swing equipped with modern LED technology. It has been my favorite ride since childhood. People of all age groups enjoy this ride.
11. Super Hupferl
Super Hupferl is the kind of ride that is fascinating for both riders and spectators. It features a fun and fast driving style, with the ride moving quickly from side to side to the beat of great music. This ride was so much fun.
12. Wilde MausÂ
Wilde Maus is like a roller coaster for kids, but adults also enjoy it. It runs on a track, but not at a very fast speed. If you're a bit afraid of speed, this ride is a good choice for you.
13. Â Infinity rideÂ
The Infinity Ride was one of the most terrifying experience of my life—just kidding, skydiving was. At first, I was very comfortable as it moved only at a 90-degree angle. On the next round, it tilted to about 140 degrees, and I really enjoyed it. Then, it went to 180 degrees.
This is something really too much fun. But to be honest, if you are scared of heights – it’s better not to take this Ride.
Food Stalls:
There were lots of food stalls offering crepes with various toppings, ice cream with mouth-watering flavors, cotton candy, popcorn, sweet corn, and Mandeln (roasted almonds) with creative twists. Additionally, there were Fries with different sauces, and various types of fries like pommes, curly fries, and hot dogs. We couldn't resist trying them all.
After the rides, we were exhausted and starving. We found a wide range of outlets offering traditional German cuisine. We stopped at one stall and ordered German pommes (fries) and steamed corn. Believe me, pommes in Europe are a lifesaver.
Traditional Stalls:
There were also many traditional and cultural stalls where you could buy German scarves, clothes, handmade baskets and bags, jewelry, typical German ornaments, wooden crafts, toys, souvenirs, and lots of interesting items for all ages.
Ending Note:
Besides this, there were a lot of rides and activities for everybody. I must say that Kirmes in Soest is the ultimate fun for people from all age groups. It has a lot to offer to every age group. If you are in Germany in November or visiting Germany, YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCE IT.