Luther’s Wedding in Lutherstadt Wittenberg – a historic festival for the whole family
Did you know that just 45 minutes by train from Berlin, you can step into a real-life time machine?
Welcome to Lutherstadt Wittenberg, the city where world history was made – and where this June, it comes alive again in the most joyful and family-friendly way imaginable.
From 13 to 15 June 2025, this picturesque town celebrates the 500th anniversary of the wedding of Martin Luther and Katharina von Bora – a bold union that defied all social norms of its time and laid the foundation for the modern concept of marriage in Protestant Europe. And what better way to honor such a love story than with a spectacular medieval-style festival?
A real town, a real story – Lutherstadt Wittenberg
Lutherstadt Wittenberg isn’t just playing dress-up. This is where it all happened: Luther lived, preached, married, raised children, and changed the course of history. So whether you’re a history buff, a festival lover, or a parent looking for an unforgettable weekend escape, this celebration has something for everyone.
And this year is truly special: 500 years since that historic “I do”.
What to Expect at Luther’s Wedding in Lutherstadt Wittenberg
🎉 Friday, 13 June
The celebrations kick off right on the historic wedding date. At 16:00, the wedding excitement begins as Martin and Katharina appear in the courtyard of the Augusteum, greeted by cheers from costumed townspeople. By 17:00, the couple makes their grand entrance on the town square to officially open the three-day festivities.
The highlight of the evening? A festive concert by Rebel Tell at 22:00, rocking the marketplace with a mix of Schlager and party tunes – a wedding gift from the Wittenberg Art Association.
👑 Saturday, 14 June
Saturday kicks off with a full day of entertainment across 13 themed areas. At 14:00, the spectacular Historical Wedding Parade starts at the Lutherhaus, with over 2,000 costumed participants marching through the old town. From 17:00 to 19:00, join the longest wedding table in town – 500 meters of feasting and fun along the Mittelstraße, complete with a playful Blind Date section in the middle.As night falls, stages all over the city come alive. Don’t miss the Spielleut Rammeschucksn rocking the main square at 21:00 with fiery medieval beats. Expect Renaissance dances, street acts, bagpipes, and even electronic sounds for the night owls.
👨👩👧 Sunday, 15 June – Family Day
Sunday is all about families. Starting from 10:00, the town turns into a playground for kids, parents, and grandparents. At 10:30, the “Little Luther Couple” – two adorable 10-year-olds – cut the giant wedding cake in the courtyard of the Lutherhof. At 11:00, they lead a charming children’s parade with over 400 costumed kids through the town, spreading smiles and sweets.
The famous Plagen & Bälger street (Wallstraße) becomes a fantasy realm once again, filled with games, storytelling, water play, and even dragons. And at 15:00, don’t miss the Roland Kaiser Tribute Show, filling the market square with five decades of the greatest love songs – a perfect grand finale to a magical weekend.
Pictures source: https://lutherhochzeit.de
You can check the whole program here: Luther’s Wedding – program
And you can buy your tickets here: Luther’s Wedding – tickets
For kids: ‘Plagen & Bälger’ area – Luther’s Wedding
Wallstraße becomes a dreamland for children, called the “Plagen und Bälger” zone. Think wooden carousels, knights’ games, storytelling tents, water play, a dragon walk act, fairytale creatures, even a fiery dragon at dusk!
Guests are encouraged to dress in historical costumes (called “gewandet” – not to be confused with carnival!). Don’t worry – you can rent one locally if you don’t own a medieval gown or knight’s tunic. The more people who join in, the more magical the atmosphere becomes.
Pictures source: https://lutherhochzeit.de
Good to know – Luther’s Wedding:
- Kids under 14 enter free to the historical areas all weekend.
- Teens aged 15–17 get discounted tickets with a student ID.
- Tickets are available online and at known sales points: www.lutherhochzeit.de
- Costume rental is available in town.
Lutherstadt Wittenberg – more than just a festival
If you’re coming for the festival, stay a little longer – or come back another time for a relaxed weekend trip. I’ve been to Lutherstadt Wittenberg twice and can truly say: it’s a perfect destination for a family getaway. With its mix of history, nature, and kid-friendly attractions, there’s plenty to explore beyond the festival buzz.
Family friendly attractions in Lutherstadt Wittenberg:
Lutherhaus & the “Der Mönch war’s!” Exhibition
This is the actual place where Luther lived – and the updated children’s exhibition is brilliant. With activities like thesis stamping, dressing up as a prince, or delivering medieval mail, Der Mönch war’s! turns history into a hands-on adventure. Guided by Luther’s dog Tölpel (yes, really!), kids learn what life was like 500 years ago in a way that’s both fun and informative.
Panorama 360 by Yadegar Asisi
This one is an absolute must – see. Step into Lutherstadt Wittenberg as it looked in 1517 with this gigantic, immersive circular artwork. The lighting, sound, and meticulous details make you feel like you’re right there, watching Luther’s world unfold. My kids were mesmerized – there’s so much to look at and discover in the scene, it’s like a time-travel game for the whole family.
Klosterkirche
One of the most surprising and beautiful experiences in Wittenberg. This former monastery has been transformed into a multi-sensory light show that tells the story of the Ascanian dynasty. From projected stained-glass windows to glowing church interiors, it’s less a museum and more an artistic journey through medieval history. My kids were quietly amazed – and that rarely happens 😉
Städtische Sammlungen
Don’t let the modest building fool you – this museum is packed with curiosities. Kids can explore a huge model of 19th-century Wittenberg, examine mummies (yes, actual ones!), and follow a kid-friendly trail with a special booklet from the reception. It’s three floors of beautifully curated exhibits, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Tierpark & Playgrounds
Sometimes you just need a break from all the learning – and Wittenberg’s green spaces deliver. There’s a lovely animal park with goats, deer, and birds, and several playgrounds nearby to let off steam. Our favorite was the one near the Altstadt: spacious, well-kept, and great for both big and little kids.
BioReservat Elbe
A hidden gem just outside town, the Elbe Biosphere Reserve is perfect for little nature explorers. We joined a guided forest tour in search of beavers – and while we didn’t spot one in the wild, the clever glass viewing hut built around a real beaver lodge was a hit with the kids. The ranger shared fascinating stories and tracks, and even without a beaver sighting, it was a peaceful, educational walk through the woods.
💡 Pro tip: Get the WelterbeCard!
With just one ticket, you get free entry or discounts at over 130 attractions, including museums, castles, nature sites, and family-friendly activities across the region. The card covers 19 locations from four different UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Lutherstadt Wittenberg, the Bauhaus city of Dessau, and beyond.
Available as a 24-hour or 3-day pass, and also in Family or Digital versions. It even comes with a handy printed guidebook. A great deal if you’re planning to explore the area!
More info: WelterbeCard
Where to stay in Lutherstadt Wittenberg?
Martas Hotel Lutherstadt Wittenberg
This centrally located 3-star superior hotel is a great pick if you’re looking for modern comfort mixed with historical flair. It offers family-friendly rooms, a sauna with a view over the rooftops, and even a restaurant inside the historic Lutherhaus walls (Restaurant von Bora). A fantastic base if you want to be in the heart of the Altstadt and explore everything on foot – and yes, just 40 minutes from Berlin by train!
Cranach-Herberge
For something truly special, book a stay in the 500-year-old former home of Lucas Cranach the Elder, Luther’s close friend and the town’s legendary painter, pharmacist, and mayor. Located right on the market square, this charming guesthouse has individually designed rooms, a Renaissance courtyard with a flowing historic fountain, and a unique artistic vibe thanks to its printing workshop, painting school, and creative spaces. A dream for history lovers and families alike!
Jugendherberge Lutherstadt Wittenberg
This youth hostel is inside the UNESCO-listed Schlosskomplex, just steps from the famous Theses Door. It’s modern, friendly, and especially practical for families and school groups. Kids will love the indoor playroom, small library, and open courtyard. Plus, it’s budget-friendly without sacrificing the historic atmosphere – a great mix of old and new.
Final thoughts about Luther’s Wedding
This is not your typical historical festival. It’s alive. It’s immersive. It’s filled with heart and joy and music and laughter. It’s about love – the bold kind that changes the world – and about celebrating it together.
Bring your kids, your curiosity, and maybe even a costume. See you in Lutherstadt Wittenberg this June?
Let’s celebrate 500 years of love, courage, and community!
