Baking and Mill Festival Gildehaus

A Homeland Festival at the Foot of the Ostmühle

Gildehaus, the westernmost district of Bad Bentheim, is known beyond its region for its over 250-year-old Ostmühle. Once a year, on the last Sunday in September, the VVV Gildehaus invites you to the Baking and Mill Festival. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Mühlenberg transforms into a festival mile that combines traditional crafts, regional culinary delights, and family entertainment.

Horse-Powered Mill and Fresh Stone-Oven Bread

The highlight of the festival is the demonstration of a horse-powered mill, showing how grain was ground before industrialization. In the adjacent bakehouse, bakers work in the stone oven, serving fresh bread, rolls, and butter cake. The aroma drifting over the Mühlenberg is one of the defining sensory impressions of the day.

Barrel Organ, Live Music, and Country Women

A giant barrel organ from the Netherlands creates a cheerful market atmosphere with its festive sounds. Live bands complement the musical program, while the Landfrauen (country women) make a special contribution with handicrafts, coffee, and cake. The variety of stalls defines the character of the festival.

Vintage Car Meet and Hunting Association

Lovers of historic vehicles will get their money's worth at the vintage car meet: old tractors and automobiles are presented on the Mühlenberg. The local hunting association is also present, providing information about local wildlife and nature conservation.

Children's Activities and Family Atmosphere

For the youngest guests, there is a dedicated children's program with activities that make the baking craft and mill life tangible. This makes the Baking and Mill Festival a classic family event that appeals to all generations.

The VVV Gildehaus as Organizer

Behind the festival is the VVV Gildehaus, a volunteer-run tourism and beautification association that is responsible for the maintenance of the Ostmühle and the bakehouse, as well as the organization of the annual festivals. The Baking and Mill Festival is one of the association's most important flagship events.