Every three years, Munich’s historic city center comes alive with a tradition as unusual as it is symbolic: the Metzgersprung.
On Sunday, September 14, 2025, the city will once again witness young butchers plunging into the cold waters of the Fischbrunnen fountain on Marienplatz, a ritual that blends centuries-old symbolism with festive celebration.
A tradition with roots in the 16th century
The Metzgersprung dates back to the dark days of the 16th century, when Munich was struggling with the aftermath of the plague.
At a time when fear kept residents inside their homes, it was the Schäffler (coopers) and butchers who stepped forward to restore life to the city.
With music and dance, they brought cheer to the streets — and the Metzgersprung became a public act of reassurance, showing that the air and water were safe again.
From apprenticeship to freedom
The ritual developed into a rite of passage for young butchers completing their apprenticeships.
After being formally released from their training, they would jump into the fountain’s waters, symbolically washing away the “sins” of their apprenticeship.
The jump also served as a public demonstration of confidence and vitality for Munich’s citizens.
Schedule for 2025
This year’s celebrations begin at 9:15 a.m. with a festive procession starting at Viktualienmarkt.
The parade will lead through Isartor and back via Tal to the Alter Peter church, where a service is scheduled for 10 a.m.
From 11:30 a.m., the butchers will move across Rinder- and Viktualienmarkt toward Marienplatz, where the highlight begins at 12:15 p.m.
The ceremony at the Fischbrunnen will include speeches, among them from Munich’s mayor Dieter Reiter.
Following tradition, the Münchner Kindl will call upon the apprentices to take the plunge, while a senior journeyman officially frees them from their training period.
Living tradition in the heart of Munich
The Metzgersprung remains one of Munich’s most distinctive cultural traditions, drawing locals and visitors alike to Marienplatz.
It is both a spectacle and a reminder of the city’s resilience, linking the festive atmosphere of today with the deep historical roots of the Bavarian capital.
