Altdorffest Bennigsen

Altdorffest Bennigsen — Living Village Community

Bennigsen, a district of the city of Springe on the western edge of the Deister, has a historic village centre with established architecture and a distinct identity that has not been lost despite its incorporation into the city of Springe. On the contrary: clubs, businesses, and committed citizens actively keep village life vibrant. One of the most important instruments of this village self-affirmation is the Altdorffest, which the Bennigser Interessengemeinschaft BIG e.V. organises annually on the last weekend of August.

In the Historic Village Centre

The festival takes place in the old village centre — hence the name. Half-timbered houses, narrow alleys, the village church, and old farmsteads create an atmosphere that a modern city festival cannot offer in this form. Stages, stands, and activity areas are spread across several locations, turning the entire village centre into a festival mile for two days. This decentralised structure makes the Altdorffest particularly charming — visitors wander from place to place, meet acquaintances along the way, and discover new programme items.

Programme and Atmosphere

Live music shapes the acoustic landscape — acoustic sets, cover bands, singer-songwriters, and occasionally classical ensembles. Club stands offer regional specialities and culinary delights, from bratwurst and fries to delicacies and coffee and cake. Hands-on activities for children, sports demonstrations by local clubs, and small cultural programmes round off the experience. In the evening, musical accompaniment dominates, and the town centre is illuminated with fairy lights and festive lighting.

A Region Behind the Festival

The Altdorffest is an example of how a well-organised village festival strengthens identification with the place while simultaneously attracting guests. Families from the Springe municipal area, former Bennigsen residents, hikers from the Deister, and visitors from the Hanover region use the weekend for a short visit. The voluntary basis — the BIG e.V., local clubs, the fire brigade — makes the festival possible.