Furpach Fire Brigade Festival

When the Brigade Celebrates

The Furpach Fire Brigade Festival is organized by the Furpach Volunteer Fire Brigade — the local brigade in the Neunkirchen district of Furpach. For decades, fire brigade festivals have been an integral part of community life in the Saarland: with the proceeds from the festival, the brigade finances equipment, training, and youth work — and in return, offers the public three days of camaraderie.

What's on Offer

• Vehicle Show: Fire engines to see and touch, with commentary from the firefighters.
• Demonstrations: Practice drills, foam extinguishing, sometimes traffic accident simulations.
• Children's Program: Water spray hose, bouncy castle, sometimes rides in a fire engine.
• Festival Marquee with live music on Saturday evening.
• Sunday Morning Pint (Frühschoppen) on Sunday with brass band music.
• Community Catering: Bratwurst, steaks, fries, draft beer — all served by the brigade, with proceeds going to the association.

Neunkirchen and its Districts

Neunkirchen is the second-largest city in the Saarland and the seat of the district of the same name. Furpach is located in the south of the city — a rather small district with active community life. The Furpach Volunteer Fire Brigade is one of about twelve fire response units of the Neunkirchen brigade and an important pillar of local village culture.

Saarland Fire Brigade Culture

Those familiar with fire brigade festivals in other German states will recognize the Saarland version — yet find its own unique character. The atmosphere is more intimate than at a Schützenfest (marksmen's festival), warmer than at a Stadtfest (city festival), and the firefighters often know their guests personally. Anyone who has attended a Saarland fire brigade festival usually returns.