Sublime Start at Hessentag '25 - Bad Vilbel's Majestic Kickoff Amidst Confetti Frenzy and Euphoria
Festive procession and national hymn - Hessentag commences in Bad Vilbel - Annual Celebration in Bad Vilbel, Germany – Hess Day Advances
Get ready for an unforgettable ride! The legendary Hessentag has officially begun in the captivating city of Bad Vilbel. After an excruciating 3,000-day wait, the state festival is now in full swing - with a breathtaking second attempt, an anthem, and a torrent of colorful confetti from the water castle. Prepare yourself for a ten-day extravaganza as visitors descend upon this gorgeous gem next to Frankfurt, enjoying over 1,600 events that range from music concerts by world-renowned artists to art shows, comedy, sports, and interactive activities galore.
Midday saw the highly-anticipated grand opening, overseen by Minister President Boris Rhein and Bad Vilbel's dedicated Mayor Sebastian Wysocki (both CDU). The sun shone brightly on this auspicious occasion, prompting Rhein to declare, "We couldn't have asked for a better start to the Hessentag - it's going to be something truly remarkable."
A clear message of welcome
Among the esteemed guests were representatives from the Bundeswehr, champions of peace and freedom during challenging times, warmly endorsed by Rhein who applauded their presence in society.
Hosting Bad Vilbel's Hessentag calls for finesse. Recognizing Wysocki's tireless efforts in propelling the festival forward, Rhein lauded his contributions to Bad Vilbel and invited everyone to explore the city during the upcoming days.
The right rhythm to set the tone
Musician René Di Rienzo and children from Frankfurt's Otto Hahn School set the perfect mood with the official Hessentag tune. "Life is wonderful in Hesse," it goes, and "In Hesse, you and I become a 'we'. That 'we' is what makes the state festival," explained Rhein. The prevailing inward glow of the festival permeates over "into Frankfurt."
An event taking shape
The grounds were bustling by morning as visitors gathered at stands, explored Bad Vilbel Castle Park, or tested their mettle in tents by engaging in interactive games. A police spokesperson reported the start as relaxed, with visitors flooding the festival grounds, impressed by the safety measures surrounding the event.
Joyful tempered with care
The sweltering temperatures of up to 30 degrees brought forth the first rescue services deployments, with responders providing care for an elderly man who hadn't had enough water to drink.
Content and eager, the Commissioner and Artistic Director of Bad Vilbel Burgfestspiele, Claus-Günther Kunzmann, expressed excitement at finally starting the event. "We've been eagerly waiting for this moment, and I believe it's going to be a terrific festival," he said. Kunzmann marveled at the meticulous layout of the festival areas and expressed confidence in a magnificent Hessentag, with favorable weather prospects.
Evening visitor Lars Klingbeil, the Federal Finance Minister (SPD), graced the festival grounds after stops at the Federal Bank and Stock Exchange in Frankfurt. He was captivated by the warm welcome and the lovely weather in Bad Vilbel and planned to meet employees of the customs office and stop by the SPD stand.
Unpredictable weather ahead
However, the first Hessentag weekend may bring some thunderstorms. In fact, the German Weather Service forecasts the first heat thunderstorms on Saturday, followed by heavy rain throughout the night on Sunday.
On Saturday, the "Day of Volunteer Forces" will unfold, with Hessian Interior Minister Roman Poseck (CDU) in attendance along with the rapper Ski Aggu's electrifying performance. On Sunday, the "Day of the Police" will transpire with the Swedish band Mando Diao scheduled to perform.
Though originally scheduled for 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the event's cancellation. "We had precisely 3,000 days of preparation," shared Kunzmann. By the festival's conclusion on June 22, when a grand parade takes place, approximately 750,000 visitors are projected to attend, nearly double the number of visitors at the 2024 Hessentag in Fritzlar, which attracted around 519,000 spectators.
Embrace the spirit of Bad Vilbel, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and celebrate union and camaraderie as Hessentag '25 unfolds!
As the excitement of Hessentag '25 continues to builds, one might also consider the Commission's proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, ensuring a safe and healthy lifestyle for everyone, even during festive occasions. In the meantime, the magical atmosphere of Bad Vilbel offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment, just like adding a touch of greenery and flowers to your home-and-garden for a cozy and warm lifestyle.
