Otto-Lilienthal-Fest Stölln

Stölln, Cradle of Aviation History

Anyone who wants to understand Otto Lilienthal must come to Stölln. Here, on the Gollenberg in Havelland, the pioneer of flying machines made his approximately 2,000 documented glider flights between 1893 and 1896 – and here he crashed to his death on August 9, 1896. His last words, "Sacrifices must be made," are carved into the Lilienthal memorial stone, which can be found at the festival grounds by the "Lady Agnes." The Otto-Lilienthal-Fest is traditionally celebrated on August 9th or the nearest weekend.

The "Lady Agnes" – An Ilyushin on the Meadow

Since 1989, the Ilyushin Il-62 "Lady Agnes" has stood here, the last passenger jet of the GDR's Interflug airline. After reunification, it made a spectacular landing at the tiny Stölln-Rhinow airfield. Today, it serves as the Lilienthal Museum, a wedding venue (Stölln is a popular wedding destination), and a symbol of the festival. The Il-62's approach to the short grass strip in August 1989 is considered a technical masterpiece of GDR pilot training.

The Festival: A Volksfest with Historical Depth

The Otto-Lilienthal-Fest is a classic Heimatfest (home festival) with a historical focus: Opening at 12 p.m. (or 12:30 p.m.) with a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial stone, stage and music program from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. directly in front of the aircraft, refreshments with coffee, cake, bratwurst, and beer, and a souvenir shop run by the Otto-Lilienthal-Verein Stölln e.V. Free admission.

Surroundings: Lilienthal Centrum and Airfield Operations

If you are in the Havelland region anyway, combine the festival with a visit to the Lilienthal Centrum (Museum) and, if desired, a sightseeing flight – the Stölln-Rhinow airfield is still active and offers guest flights. The Havelland region is also scenically attractive: Rhinower Berge, Havelländisches Luch, Stork Festival.