Fête du Kougelhopf de Ribeauvillé

The kougelhopf, a symbol of Alsatian pastry

The kougelhopf (or kouglof) is undoubtedly the most emblematic cake of Alsace. Recognizable by its characteristic fluted shape, obtained thanks to the traditional terracotta mold, it comes in a sweet version — with almonds, raisins, and flavored with kirsch — or in a savory version with bacon and walnuts. Since 1972, the city of the minstrels has dedicated an annual festival to it, attracting gourmets and lovers of Alsatian traditions to the heart of Ribeauvillé.

The Confrérie des Rois Mages, guardian of tradition

The Confrérie des Rois Mages, founded in 1979 by Charles Bentz, a master confectioner, is the soul of this festival. Its mission: to promote local and regional products, and particularly kougelhopf. Each year, the brotherhood organizes the best kougelhopf competition, open to amateurs and professionals, which tests the talent and know-how of the participants. The members of the brotherhood, dressed in their ceremonial robes, induct new members and present awards in a solemn yet good-natured atmosphere.

Folklore, music, and entertainment

The Fête du Kougelhopf is also a folk festival in its own right. Alsatian folk groups in traditional costumes provide entertainment throughout the day, with dances, songs, and popular music. The Harmonie municipale Vogésia of Ribeauvillé offers a morning concert that kicks off the festivities. Activities for children, craft stands, and pastry-making demonstrations complete the program for this festive day.

The kougelhopf pyramid and tastings

One of the most anticipated moments of the festival is the presentation of the kougelhopf pyramid, a spectacular stack of cakes that is the subject of a raffle. Visitors can taste kougelhopfs of all kinds — sweet, savory, fruit, chocolate — accompanied by Alsace wines selected by Ribeauvillé winemakers. The prestigious Grands Crus Geisberg, Kirchberg, and Osterberg offer a perfect pairing with the flavors of traditional kougelhopf.

Ribeauvillé, a medieval setting in the heart of the vineyards

The festival takes place at the Jardin de Ville, a green space located at the entrance to the medieval town. Ribeauvillé, dominated by the silhouettes of the three castles of Ribeaupierre — Saint-Ulrich, Girsberg, and Haut-Ribeaupierre — is one of the most visited villages on the Alsace Wine Route. Its half-timbered houses, Renaissance fountains, and exceptional historical heritage offer an enchanting setting for this celebration of Alsatian gastronomic heritage. The town is also labeled Site Remarquable du Goût (Remarkable Site of Taste), a distinction that highlights the richness of its culinary traditions.