Havelstadt Werder Gears Up for the Annual Blossom Festival

The picturesque town of Werder, located in the Havelland region, is preparing to host its celebrated Blossom Festival, a cherished tradition that showcases the beauty of blooming fruit trees. Scheduled from April 26 to May 4, the festival will feature approximately 30 local farms and gardens that invite visitors to enjoy their wines amidst the stunning backdrop of white and pink blossoms.

Last year, the festival faced challenges as local fruit growers dealt with frost-related losses. This year, however, the community is hopeful for a successful turnout. The local police have ramped up preparations for the event, which draws visitors from far and wide, and have been working to ensure safety and security throughout the festivities.

Historically, the Blossom Festival has attracted hundreds of thousands of attendees, but it has also faced scrutiny due to incidents of unruly behavior in previous years. In response, local authorities reevaluated the festival's structure to foster a more family-friendly atmosphere. The 2024 event reported a significant decrease in criminal activities, suggesting the changes have had a positive impact.

The festival's origins date back to 1879, when local fruit growers began inviting visitors to celebrate the arrival of spring by witnessing the blossoming of apple and cherry trees. This year's festivities will include a traditional Blossom Ball on April 25 and a running event through the city's forest on April 27. Additionally, a colorful parade featuring vibrant floats from various local clubs is set to take place on May 3.

As part of the festival's lively atmosphere, amusement rides such as a Ferris wheel and bumper cars will be available starting April 30, accompanied by live music performances across several stages. These events are designed to create a festive environment that appeals to attendees of all ages.

Visitors can easily reach Werder via regional train services from Berlin or by boat from Potsdam. The town also offers guided bus tours that take guests to various orchards, with tickets priced at ten euros for adults and five euros for children aged six and older. In 2024, around 40,500 attendees traveled by train to participate in the festival, highlighting its popularity.