Stanser Warenmarkt

Description

Stans, as an old market town, has been holding markets since the Middle Ages. The Landfriede letter of 1456 already mentions the market right as existing. Further records date back to 1615 about the cattle market. In 1625, it was decreed that the market stalls should be set up as before. At that time, the officials as Landweibel and Landschreiber organized the market. The marketplace took on a new form after the village fire of 1713, which claimed over 81 roofs, including the town hall. According to the plan of the master builders Josef Aebi and Ludwig Gassmann, the town center was rebuilt. A catastrophe of great magnitude thus laid the foundation for the "most beautiful village square in Switzerland," as it has often been called.
The cattle market in Steinmättli enjoyed great popularity for centuries. Due to the changes experienced by agriculture, the number of animals brought in rapidly declined from 1970. Since the spring market of 1995, the cattle market has no longer been held, after fewer than 10 animals were brought in in recent years.
The goods market, on the other hand, attracted more and more market traders. In 1868, there were still 120 market stalls. When the legendary market chief Johnny Mathis organized his first market in 1973, 135 market traders and agricultural machinery exhibitors offered their goods. Under Johnny Mathis, the Stanser market experienced a great upswing to more than 240 traders. Johnny successfully shaped the Stanser market for 25 years. In recent years, the number of vendors has stabilized at around 220. On the other hand, some market traders come with larger market wagons. Since the number of places can no longer be expanded, numerous cancellations have to be issued repeatedly. In the past, market visitors stocked up twice a year with various goods such as clothes, shoes, tools, and the like. Although these goods can now be bought all year round in shops and centers, the population remains loyal to the market to the satisfaction of the vendors. The Stanser market is also always a day of encounter, where people from the whole region and many homesick Nidwaldners meet. An event for almost all social classes and an experience for the youngest and people up to old age.
Always from 08:30 to 18:00

Highlights

• Over 200 market stalls on a Wednesday in spring and autumn
• Historic market with centuries-old tradition
• Popular meeting place in the village center of Stans

General Information

The Stanser Warenmarkt takes place twice a year on the village square and offers a variety of goods from local traders. The market has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages and is today an important event for the region. Visitors can discover regional products and handicrafts.

Location

Dorfplatz, 6370 Stans, Schweiz

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