The tree blossom festival in Werder is one of the largest folk festivals in Germany Photo: picture alliance
By Michael Sauerbier
After a forced break of three years, the island city is celebrating the tree blossom festival again. But this time everything will be different than before.
There are no more carousels, bumper cars, beer and shooting galleries this year. After the alcohol and violent excesses of the last festivals, the city deleted the large fairground from the festival program.
Now the orchards on Hoher Weg are becoming the central festival mile. With small stalls and a wonderful view of the Havel. The concerts take place on the nearby Bismarckhöhe, with strict conditions and controls.
Peaceful enjoyment instead of violence and drunkenness: This is what the new tree blossom festival should look like Photo: Michael Sauerbier
There is a regional market with culinary offers on the picturesque Fischerinsel, and a Ferris wheel on the shore. It will be closed to cars.
Mayor Manuela Sass (57, CDU) expects a large crowd despite the shrinking program: rail and shipping companies are again offering numerous special trains and excursion boats from Berlin and Potsdam.
The festival runs from April 22nd to May 1st.