The Cranger Kirmes is a fair in Germany, located in Wanne-Eickel in the city of Herne. It is the biggest fair in the whole state of Northrhine-Westphalia and the second biggest fair in Germany, only behind the Oktoberfest. In 2008 there were 4.7 million visitors[1]. At an area of only 110,000 m²[2] it is also called the "most overcrowded fair of the world".
The exact year of the first fair is unknown. During the 15th century a horse market was established in Crange. Over the years, dancers, prestidigitators and carnies joined and gradually upstaged the horse dealers. Cranger Kirmes grew parallel to the expansion of industry and mining in Ruhr Area.
The fair occurs annually for a period of 10 days from the first Friday in August. Visitor attractions include a Ferris wheel, carousels, roller coasters, ghost trains, carnival games, beer gardens and raffles. Both on opening and closing day a fireworks show is presented.