Fair in Essen-Werden on the site of the Werdener Fine Cloth Works

The fair has in Essen-Werden at Baldeneysee a long tradition. Its origins lie in Ludgerus Festival, which is celebrated in honor of Saint Liudger in September every year. Besides the Apple Fair – as this fair is also called, the Pentecost fair is the second fair of the year, which – this time on the Pentecost weekend – is set up on the square Werdener Feintuchwerke between the basilica, abbey Werden and Mariengymnasium.

While funfairs were often associated with historical and traditional aspects in the past, the concept has evolved. Large fairs like the Cranger Kirmes, the Rheinkirmes, or Oktoberfest now feature not only beer tents but also cutting-edge attractions such as virtual reality experiences, action-packed high-speed rides, and interactive events. Due to its limited space, the Werdener funfair is clearly a family-oriented event, offering rides and carousels for even the youngest children, bumper cars for teenagers, and beer tents for adults. Of course, typical funfair treats like bratwurst, cotton candy, roasted almonds, crêpes, candied apples, and chocolate-covered fruit are also present, as are game booths where visitors can test their skills: fishing, can throwing, or darts to win cuddly toys and other prizes for their loved ones. Whether it's a few rides on the caterpillar ride or simply a leisurely stroll around the fairgrounds, the Werden funfair has something for everyone.

The Whitsun fair in Essen-Werden is a popular event for the whole family. Those who aren't using their time off for a short break, but prefer to relax at home, visit the fair in the Ruhr Valley with their kids. The mix of rides and culinary delights like cotton candy, candied apples, and roasted almonds, which are only ever found at fairs, makes it such a great experience.

Kirmes, an abbreviation of Kirchmesse (church fair) on the occasion of the church consecration, is a popular, entertaining folk festival held not only in villages and towns in Germany, but practically all over the world. Originally established to celebrate the consecration of a church or its anniversary, the festival is no longer perceived as religious by the general public. In the abbey village Werden, one can still feel the roots of the Kirmes, which here takes place in the immediate vicinity of the old abbey Werden,, in what is now the Folkwang University of the Arts is housed within, and the Basilica of Saint Ludger is being built.

Closely linked to the Ludgerus Festival is the annual Appeltatenkirmes (Apple Tart Fair), held on the first weekend in September. Bernhard von Wevelinghoven, the 28th elected abbot of Werden,, is said to have established the festival in the 12th century as an expression of gratitude for good harvests despite prolonged periods of severe weather, in order to thank Saint Liudger, whom he credited with this miracle. When the fair was added is unknown. It is considered certain, however, that the Appeltatenkirmes is Essen's oldest fair. A particular highlight is a traditional apple casserole – similar to a covered apple pie – prepared by the so-called "Appeltaten" (apple tarts).