Diesdorf im Advent

When Diesdorf Lights Up

Magdeburg is big. The Magdeburg Christmas market on the Alter Markt even bigger. But amidst all the hustle and bustle, the district of Diesdorf in western Magdeburg has preserved its own, much quieter Advent event: “Diesdorf im Advent”. The organizer is the BHV Magdeburg-Diesdorf e.V. — Bürger- und Heimatverein (Civic and Heritage Association) — which cultivates district life under the label “Wir-Diesdorfer” (We-Diesdorfers).

What to Expect

Instead of large stages and three-story pyramids, Diesdorf offers what many miss about Advent: Neighborliness. Clubs, kindergartens, schools, and Diesdorf businesses set up their stalls, the baked apple aroma mixes with bratwurst smoke, children's choirs sing, and the association serves hot apple punch. Small, but lovingly staged — and with that East German wink that is characteristic of Magdeburg.

A District with History

Diesdorf is a typical Magdeburg suburb: formerly an independent municipality, incorporated in 1910, with brick schools, a church, and a surprisingly green location on the edge of the Magdeburger Börde. The Advent festival is a key event in the club calendar and represents vibrant district life in the state of Saxony-Anhalt and the independent city of Magdeburg. Anyone wanting to discover Magdeburg beyond the cathedral and the Elbe should come to Diesdorf on the first weekend of Advent.