Auer Dult Munich 2026: Dates, Hours, History & What to Buy

The Auer Dult: Munich’s Traditional Market on Mariahilfplatz

The Auer Dult is one of Munich's oldest and most beloved traditions, held three times a year on Mariahilfplatz in the Au district. The word “Dult” comes from the Bavarian term for a fair originally tied to church celebrations, while “Auer” refers to the Au neighborhood itself. For nine days each spring, summer, and fall, around 250 stalls fill the square with everything from fine porcelain to vintage clothing.

What makes the Auer Dult special is its character as a giant jumble sale — you can hunt for antiques, rare books, and second-hand treasures alongside brand-new household goods. It's a place where locals stock up on practical items like cooking utensils and where visitors can find a genuinely unique souvenir. Whether you come for the shopping, the rides, or the food, the Dult offers a slice of authentic Munich life.

2026 Dates and Opening Hours

The Auer Dult happens three times a year, each edition running for nine days. For 2026, the official dates are: Maidult from April 25 to May 3, Jakobidult from July 25 to August 2, and Kirchweihdult from October 17 to October 25. These dates are confirmed on the official Auer Dult website, but as with any large event, it's wise to double-check closer to your visit in case of changes.

Opening hours are consistent within each edition but vary slightly in the fall. During the Maidult and Jakobidult, the market is open daily from 10:00 to 20:00, while rides run from 10:30 to 20:00. For the Kirchweihdult in October, the market closes at 19:00 and rides also end an hour earlier, at 19:00. Note that these times apply to all days, including weekends and holidays.

How to Get There

Mariahilfplatz is well-served by public transport. The U-Bahn lines U1 and U2 stop at Fraunhoferstraße or Kolumbusplatz, both within walking distance. Alternatively, you can take tram line 18 directly to the Mariahilfplatz stop, or buses 52 and 62, which also stop there. Plan your trip using the MVV transit app or website to find the best connection.

If you're driving, park-and-ride facilities are available at several locations on the outskirts of the city, including Garching-Hochbrück, Fröttmaning, and Kieferngarten. From these, you can take public transport into the city center. It's generally easier to avoid driving into the congested inner-city area, as parking is limited and expensive.

What to Buy: Shopping Treasures

The Auer Dult is renowned for its ceramics — porcelain, stoneware, and earthenware are always in high demand. Beyond that, you'll find a wide array of antiques, vintage clothing, and second-hand goods at the many “Tandler” stalls. These dealers often carry Asian art, old jewelry, and historical toys, making it a paradise for treasure hunters.

For traditional Bavarian clothing, you'll discover lederhosen and dirndls, both new and used. The market also features practical household items like cookware, linens, and cleaning gadgets — even a fresh knife sharpener. Don't miss the “Neugkeiten-Gasse” (novelties alley), where vendors demonstrate their latest kitchen wonders.

Food and Drink

After a long stroll, you'll want to refuel at one of the many food stalls. Expect traditional Bavarian specialties like Steckerlfisch (fish on a stick), grilled chicken, and sausages, along with fresh beer, fruit juices, and coffee. For a sweet ending, try hand-made Auszogene (a type of fried dough), fluffy Dampfnudeln (steamed dumplings), or fresh Bavesen.

For families, benches are available for tired children and adults, and there are areas for nursing and stroller parking. Two drinking water fountains provide free refreshments — one near Rupert-Stöckl-Platz opposite the Mariahilfkirche and another at the Dult office on Liesl-Karlstadt-Platz. Always carry a water bottle, especially during the warm summer edition.

Rides and Family Entertainment

The Auer Dult isn't just for shoppers — kids will love the carousels, bumper cars, and other rides like the chain swing and the Ferris wheel. There's also a historic carousel with an organ, puppet shows, and shooting galleries. Acrobats and clowns entertain between rides, keeping the atmosphere lively.

Every Tuesday is family day, when the ride operators offer reduced prices — check the official signs or ask at the ride for the exact discount, as it may vary. It's a strategic day to visit if you're on a budget. For the littlest visitors, there are also small rides suitable for toddlers.

History of the Fair

The Auer Dult traces its origins back to 1310, when the first Dult was held at the Anger, now Sankt-Jakobs-Platz. In 1796, Electoral Prince Karl Theodor granted the Au suburb the right to hold the fair twice a year. Since 1905, it has taken place three times annually at Mariahilfplatz, where it has become an integral part of Munich's cultural calendar.

The word “Dult” originally referred to a fair connected with a church celebration, attracting itinerant traders and entertainers. Over time, it evolved into a general market. The Auer Dult's history is well-documented, and if you're curious, guided tours are available that delve into the stories behind the stalls. Check with Munich Tourism for current tour schedules.

Practical Information

The Auer Dult is organized by the City of Munich's Department of Labor and Economic Development. For any queries, you can contact them by phone at +49 89 233 82814 or by email at veranstaltungen.raw@muenchen.de. For accessibility details and other visitor information, the official website provides comprehensive guidance.

Toilets are available on-site, and facilities are generally wheelchair-accessible, but it's best to confirm specifics via the official site if you have particular needs. The fair is a popular event, so expect crowds on weekends and holidays. Visiting on a weekday could offer a more relaxed experience.

Plan Your Visit

The Auer Dult offers a unique blend of shopping, entertainment, and Bavarian culture that's hard to find elsewhere. Whether you're a collector seeking rare porcelain or a family looking for a fun day out, the fair has something for everyone. Remember to check the exact dates and hours on the official website before you go, as they are subject to change.

Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding Au district, which offers charming streets and local cafes. With three editions a year, you have plenty of opportunities to experience this Munich tradition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Auer Dult?

The Auer Dult is a traditional Bavarian fair held three times a year on Mariahilfplatz in Munich's Au district. It features a large open-air market with ceramics, antiques, and second-hand treasures, as well as rides, food stalls, and entertainment. It originated in 1310 and has been held at its current location since 1905.

When is the Auer Dult in 2026?

The Auer Dult takes place three times in 2026: Maidult from April 25 to May 3, Jakobidult from July 25 to August 2, and Kirchweihdult from October 17 to October 25. Each runs for nine days. Always verify on the official website for any changes.

What are the opening hours of the Auer Dult?

During Maidult and Jakobidult, the market is open daily from 10am to 8pm and rides from 10:30am to 8pm. During Kirchweihdult, the market closes at 7pm and rides at 7pm. These hours are consistent every day of the event.

How do I get to the Auer Dult?

Take the U-Bahn U1 or U2 to Fraunhoferstraße or Kolumbusplatz, or take tram line 18 to Mariahilfplatz. Buses 52 and 62 also stop there. If driving, use park-and-ride facilities and continue by public transport.

Is there a family day at the Auer Dult?

Yes, every Tuesday during the Dult is family day, offering reduced prices on rides. The exact discount varies, so check signs or ask at the rides. It's a good opportunity for families to enjoy the fair at a lower cost.

What can I buy at the Auer Dult?

You can buy a wide range of items, including porcelain and ceramics, antiques, vintage clothing, traditional Bavarian clothing (lederhosen and dirndls), household goods, books, and curiosities. The fair is particularly famous for its jumble sale atmosphere.