Messe der Griesen Gegend Lübtheen

The Griese Gegend – A Unique Natural Area

The Griese Gegend is an extensive heath and pine landscape in southwestern Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, located between the Elbe and Müritz rivers. Characterized by sparse sandy soils – the "griese" (grey) in the name refers to the light sandy colors – the region has developed its own distinct identity, with its own dialect, traditional crafts, and a strong network of associations. The Messe der Griesen Gegend has been the community-building major event of the region since 1995.

Program and Character

The day traditionally begins with the ceremonial erection of the Maypole by local craftspeople – a custom that marks the beginning of summer in many North German villages. This is followed by performances by craftspeople and associations, a farmers' market with products from the Griesen Gegend (honey, sausages, bread, hand-woven textiles), a stage with folk music and Schlager, a carousel, and children's attractions. Lübtheen, the seat of the Wittenburg office, serves as the host and venue.

Local Context

Lübtheen is located in the Ludwigslust-Parchim district of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, near the Lower Saxony border. The town is nestled in the Sandheide of the Griesen Gegend, which gained international attention as a military training area fire zone since 2019 and is being redeveloped into a heathland and recreational area through dedicated renaturation efforts. The Messe der Griesen Gegend is an expression of civic rootedness in this special landscape.