A jubilant festival in summer, a celebration as bright as summer itself – yesterday as well as today. Children are at the centre of attention, both in the re-enactment of how the town was spared by the Swedes, as well as in the game deriving from this tradition.

Children are seen as a force giving life, warmth, and perennial youth to the town. Whoever participates, does so with verve. People are involved on behalf of their town and in honour of the Kinderzeche, which divides the year in two halves. Besides the event itself, around which life in Dinkelsbühl revolves, there is only a “before” and an “after” the Kinderzeche. From the little boy holding the nanny’s hand all the way to the dignified councillor who personifies the pride and strength of the town – all are involved.

Visitors coming to town in the days leading up to, or following the third Monday in July can witness this for themselves. They are spellbound by a unique atmosphere, one that derives from a strong sense of regional patriotism. The festival, which touches everyone in a unique way, lasts for ten days. The grand finale makes everyone look forward to next year’s festival.