Roonkarker Mart in Stadland

The Roonkarker Mart (Low German for Rodenkirchen market) is a traditional fair in the village of Rodenkirchen, which belongs to the municipality of Stadland in Lower Saxony. The origins of the Roonkarker Mart are not exactly documented, but it is assumed that the market originated from a church consecration festival.

The market used to take place right next to the Roonkarker church before it was moved to the current market square. The 800th Roonkarker Mart was celebrated in 1933, based on the presumed foundation of the church in 1131. Since then, the market has been held annually, with the exception of the world wars and the coronavirus pandemic. The 887th Roonkarker Mart was celebrated in 2022.

Scheduling: The Roonkarker Mart takes place every year at the end of September, from Saturday to Tuesday. The exact date is based on St. Michael's Day (September 29), with the Monday of the market always being the Monday before this date. The Wednesday after the market is always the last Wednesday in September.

On the Friday evening before the market, the showmen gather in the market hall for the traditional “Discover Event”, known locally as “Christmas Eve”. The big parade through Rodenkirchen traditionally takes place on Saturday, followed by the official opening of the market by the mayor.

The Roonkarker Mart is a popular folk festival with over 200,000 visitors in 2018, offering numerous rides, stalls and entertainment for the whole family.