Dorfpartie at Museumsdorf Cloppenburg 2026

Museumsdorf Cloppenburg — Germany's Oldest Open-Air Museum

The Museumsdorf Cloppenburg was founded in 1934 and is considered Germany's oldest open-air museum. Across a large area, over 60 historical buildings from western Lower Saxony have been gathered: farmhouses, mills, chapels, granaries, schools, and inns. The museum is not just a collection but also comes alive through themed events that make the village life of past centuries tangible. The Dorfpartie is one of its largest and most well-attended.

Ascension Weekend — Four Days of Plants and Crafts

The Dorfpartie 2026 runs from May 14 to 17 (Ascension weekend), daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Over 100 exhibitors will set up their stalls in the museum village, spread among the historic buildings, courtyards, and paths. The offerings include:

• Plants, herbs, and perennials from regional nurseries
• Arts and crafts in many disciplines — ceramics, wood, textiles, jewelry, glass
• Fashion and accessories
• Regional food products and specialties

Lively Entertainment — Craftspeople and Performers

What sets the Dorfpartie apart from a mere sales market is the lively entertainment:

• Stilt walkers roam the paths
• Brass bands play at various stations
• Active craftspeople demonstrate their skills: glassblowers, woodturners, porcelain painters
• Historical domestic animals — old breeds that are part of the museum village's character

This creates a multifaceted atmosphere that appeals to garden and plant enthusiasts as well as families, craft lovers, and anyone who simply wants to experience a day in a historic setting.

40,000 Visitors Expected

With around 40,000 expected visitors, the Dorfpartie is one of the most attended events in the Oldenburg Münsterland region and one of the most important May dates on the Lower Saxony event calendar. Those arriving by car should come early — parking spaces are in high demand.