Siebenpfeiffer Banquet Zweibrücken

Philipp Jakob Siebenpfeiffer and the Fatherland and Press Association

Philipp Jakob Siebenpfeiffer (1789–1845) was one of the most important pioneers for freedom of the press and opinion in the German Vormärz period. As a publicist and political activist, he was among the founders of the Vaterlands- und Preßverein (Fatherland and Press Association), which was established in Zweibrücken-Bubenhausen in 1832. A few months later, on May 27, 1832, together with Johann Georg August Wirth, he led the Hambach Festival — one of the central manifestations for German unity, freedom, and democratic constitution in the 19th century.

The Siebenpfeiffer Foundation

The Siebenpfeiffer Foundation preserves the legacy of this democracy pioneer. It organizes academic symposia, awards the Siebenpfeiffer Prize, and annually designs the festive banquet that commemorates the founding occasion of the Fatherland and Press Association. The City of Zweibrücken supports the banquet and provides the Wintergarten of the Festhalle as a festive setting.

Program 2026: "Algokratie"

The 2026 ceremonial speech addresses a highly topical issue with the term "Algokratie": To what extent do algorithmic systems influence political decision-making, democratic processes, and public opinion today? The ceremonial speaker is Dr. Thorsten Klein. The connection between 1832 and 2026 is programmatic: the question of freedom of the press has gained new urgency in the digital age.

Slam Poetry and Music

Leah Eisenbarth provides the literary-artistic connection with a performance in the style of modern slam poetry — a deliberate bridging format between a classical ceremonial speech and contemporary word art. Hans and Daniel Bollinger provide the musical accompaniment for the evening.