Messti de Betschdorf

The Messti: at the heart of Alsatian tradition

The Messti (or Kilbe) is the traditional patronal feast of Alsatian villages, celebrated in honor of the patron saint of the parish church or to commemorate the anniversary of its consecration. More than just a village fair, the Messti is a founding moment of community life: it is the day when the whole village gathers to celebrate, eat, dance, and perpetuate the traditions inherited from previous generations.

Betschdorf: capital of stoneware pottery

Betschdorf holds a unique place in French artisanal heritage. Since the 18th century, Betschdorf potters have perpetuated the technique of salt-glazing, inherited from the artisans of the Westerwald (Germany) who settled in the village from 1717. Their creations—always in grey and cobalt blue—are fired at very high temperatures (1300°C) with a salt glaze that gives them exceptional beauty and durability.

Messti Program

The Messti de Betschdorf offers a festive and family-friendly program:

• Solemn Mass in honor of the patron saint, followed by a procession
• Fairground with rides and attractions for all ages
• Flea market and craft market in the village streets
• Musical entertainment: brass bands, folk groups, municipal band
• Traditional meals: Baeckeoffe, choucroute, Flammekueche, pastries
• Pottery demonstrations in the workshops on Rue des Potiers
• Street performances: theater, jugglers, clowns
• Public dance on Saturday evening

The Pottery Museum

The Betschdorf Pottery Museum takes advantage of the Messti to open its doors wide and present its exceptional collections: from medieval productions to decorated pieces from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as contemporary art pottery. It's an opportunity to understand the history and techniques of this unique craft.