Mettenhofer Stadtteilfest

Mettenhof — A Kiel District Reimagined

Mettenhof, with around 18,000 inhabitants, is one of Kiel's largest districts — and one of the youngest: Built in the 1960s and 70s as a satellite town on the western outskirts, Mettenhof was long confronted with the stigma of a difficult social situation. Over the last 20 years, the district has fundamentally transformed — new green spaces on Heidenberger See, a vibrant district office, cultural initiatives, and the neighbourhood festival have given Mettenhof a new sense of identity.

21st Edition 2026 — After the Anniversary

The premiere of the Mettenhofer Stadtteilfest took place in 2005; the 20th anniversary was celebrated in 2025 with a special programme. In 2026, the 21st edition kicks off on the park meadow at Heidenberger See — the annual summer event is considered the most important date in the district's calendar.

50 Actors on One Meadow

The festival's concept is clearly defined: 50 actors from Mettenhof — clubs, initiatives, schools, kindergartens, churches, migrant organisations, sports clubs, the citizens' association, and the district conference — set up stands and create a stage programme. After an ecumenical service and opening speeches, the festival programme begins around 12:30 PM.

Diversity as a Core Brand

Mettenhof is one of Kiel's most multicultural districts — residents from over 80 nations live here. The neighbourhood festival makes this diversity visible: Culinary delights from various cultures, musical contributions in different languages, dance groups, intercultural encounters. Vonovia, as a major housing provider in the district, and the City of Kiel support the festival financially and logistically.

Integrated into District Work

The festival is part of broader engagement: It is organised by the Mettenhof District Office in cooperation with a planning group that brings together full-time staff from the district conference, child and youth work, the church, the youth welfare office, the Mettenhof Working Group for Crime Prevention, and volunteer activists. Thus, the neighbourhood festival is not just a summer celebration but also a visible expression of active district work.