Fête de la Choucroute de Krautergersheim

Krautergersheim: Cradle and Capital of Sauerkraut

Krautergersheim, a small village in the Alsatian plain about twenty kilometers southwest of Strasbourg, proudly bears the title of "Capital of Sauerkraut". And for good reason: the municipality and its surroundings produce a considerable portion of French sauerkraut. The very name of the village, "Kraut" meaning "cabbage" in Alsatian, testifies to an ancestral link with this market gardening culture. The vast cabbage fields surrounding the village create a characteristic landscape, particularly spectacular in autumn when the cabbage heads reach full maturity.

Half a Century of Festive Tradition

It was in 1974 that the farmers of Krautergersheim had the idea to create a festival to celebrate the cabbage harvest. Since this first edition, the Fête de la Choucroute has continued to grow, becoming one of the most important gastronomic events in Alsace. In 2025, the festival celebrated its 50th anniversary with an exceptional edition. The event is organized by ALAK (Association Loisirs et Animations de Krautergersheim), whose twenty or so members meet throughout the year to prepare the festivities.

Under the Marquee: Orchestra, Dance, and Sauerkraut

The heart of the festival beats under an immense marquee set up on the Place des Fêtes. An Alsatian orchestra livens up the meals and dances, playing waltzes, polkas, and traditional tunes that get guests dancing between courses. Tables share generous sauerkraut platters — with their assortments of sausages, bacon, pork knuckle, and potatoes — accompanied by Alsatian wines and local beers. The atmosphere is festive, warm, and friendly.

The Grand Parade: Floats and Traditions

Sunday afternoon is dedicated to the grand parade, the highlight of the event. A procession of decorated floats winds through the village streets, accompanied by folk groups in traditional costumes, brass bands, and music societies. Cabbage-cutting demonstrations in the old-fashioned way allow visitors to discover the know-how of the sauerkraut makers and the process of transforming cabbage into sauerkraut through lactic fermentation.

An Emblematic Alsatian Product

Alsace sauerkraut has benefited from a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) since 2018, testifying to the quality and authenticity of this local product. The Fête de la Choucroute de Krautergersheim contributes to the promotion of this culinary heritage by introducing visitors to the different stages of production, from cabbage harvesting to fermentation, as well as the many ways to enjoy sauerkraut.