Erntedankfest at the Kiekeberg Open-Air Museum

Harvest Festival in the Historic Museum Village

The Erntedankfest falls on the first October weekend, the classic date for agricultural harvest celebrations. The Kiekeberg Open-Air Museum uses this date to showcase historical harvest work. The demonstrations are not just for show but preserve concrete craft knowledge that would be lost without this annual event.

Threshing Demonstrations with Historic Machines

The focus of the demonstrations is on threshing. Historic flails, hand threshing machines, and large threshing machines powered by traction engines will be shown in action. Visitors can experience the noise, dust, and physical labor that were once part of threshing — and understand why the invention of modern combine harvesters revolutionized agriculture.

Bakehouse, Brewhouse, and Apple Press

Bread is baked according to old recipes in the bakehouse, beer is brewed using historical methods in the brewhouse, and juice is extracted from regional apple varieties at the apple press. These three stations show how the harvest was transformed into immediate food — bread, beer, and juice, the staple foods of past generations.

Potato Harvest and Farm Work

On the farmyards, potato harvesting, beet and cabbage harvesting, and other farm work are demonstrated. Children can participate in the gathering, learning where the food on their plates actually comes from. This active participation makes the festival an educational experience.

Family Program and Culinary Delights

Families will find hands-on stations, games based on historical models, and encounters with farm animals. The museum restaurant offers regional cuisine and harvest specialties, while snack stands serve soups, stews, freshly baked bread, and juices. Admission: Children under 18 free, Adults 12 Euros.