19. Märkisches Dampfspektakel

Steam technology in an industrial heritage setting

The Ziegeleipark Mildenberg is one of Brandenburg's most important industrial monuments. Here, north of Zehdenick in the Oberhavel district, millions of bricks were produced between 1887 and 1991 — many of them went to Berlin as it grew into a metropolis during the imperial era. Today, the 40-hectare site is a living museum with a tunnel kiln, drying sheds, narrow-gauge railway, and red clinker drying towers.

Once a year, the site becomes the stage for the Märkisches Dampfspektakel — Brandenburg's largest steam technology gathering. The 19th edition takes place on May 2nd and 3rd, 2026, marking the season opener for Ziegeleipark.

What to expect over the weekend

The program includes all disciplines of the steam era:

• Steam locomotive parades with historic narrow-gauge locomotives on the park's own narrow-gauge railway
• Steam engine exhibition: stationary and mobile engines, often over 100 years old
• Threshing demonstrations on the festival meadow — grain threshing with a steam tractor, as around 1900
• Steam rollers and steam tractors in action
• Steamroadsters — Steampunk theatre with costumed performers, ironically and fantastically staging steam culture
• Large flea market with industrialia, hardware, antiques
• Model building exhibitions in the former drying halls
• Ship demonstrations: steam-powered model ships on the clay pit pond

Steampunk in Ziegeleipark

What distinguishes the Dampfspektakel Mildenberg from classic steam days is the steampunk component: performances, costumes, and shows that blend the Victorian industrial age with contemporary fantasy. The format attracts not only classic steam technology fans but also cosplay communities and photographers looking for the mix of authentic industrial backdrop and fantastic staging.

Practical Information

Opening hours on Saturday are 10 AM to 6 PM, and on Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is €15 for adults and €7.50 reduced. Food and drinks are available on site, as are rides on the historic narrow-gauge railway between exhibition areas. The entire site is generously sized, so you should expect to spend several hours here.