A large procession on Friday, September 9 will mark the occasion. It will portray the most important events in the event's history which began as a church consecration festival some 600 years ago.　

More than 700,000 visitors are expected to attend on the two weekends from September 9 until September 13, and from September 16 until September 19. On the huge fairground young visitors can enjoy fun rides such as carousels, roller coasters, a Ferris wheel but also candy booths and much more. Over 290 exhibitors and gastronomic organizations will be on hand and visitors can choose from up to 300 different varieties of wine from Palatinate. For the first time a 70 meter high city skyliner will provide an aerial view of the proceedings.　

Bad Dürkheim is taking safety measures very seriously for this year's event . There will be an increased number of police and security personnel on hand and personal belongings will be checked on entry to the market.

at/ks/pw (dpa,lrs)