State Miners' Day Saxony-Anhalt

Glück auf in the Mansfeld Region

For centuries, the southern edge of the Harz mountains and the Mansfeld region in the Mansfeld-Südharz district were the heart of German copper shale mining. In the federal state of Saxony-Anhalt, spoil heaps, shafts, and miners' songs still recall this past. The State Miners' Day is the most important date for the state's mining community – miners' associations, brass bands, and traditional groups come together to call out “Glück auf” (Good luck), march in traditional costume, and celebrate their shared heritage.

Venue: Röhrigschacht Wettelrode Mine

The venue is the Röhrigschacht Wettelrode Mining Experience Centre near Sangerhausen, one of the few accessible mines in Central Germany. A cage lift takes you 283 metres down, a mine train rolls through the tunnels, and guided tours explain copper shale mining. An above-ground mining museum displays tools, costumes, and minerals. The day thus frames not only folklore but also real mining practice.

Program Idea

The State Miners' Day combines tradition and festival culture: a festival parade of the mining guilds in traditional costume, miners' brass band and miners' choir, a ceremonial speech by the state association chairman, awards for deserving miners, plus tours of the mine shafts, mine tours, a souvenir and information mile on the day before, and culinary catering in the Bergmannsklause (miners' tavern).