Brookmerland / Marienhafe Störtebeker Festival

Marienhafe and the Störtebeker Legend

Marienhafe in the Brookmerland municipality is one of the oldest places in East Frisia. In the 14th century, the town was directly connected to the North Sea via the Schippfahrtsystem (shipping system) and formed an important harbour. The infamous Vitalienbrüder pirate Klaus Störtebeker is said to have launched his raids on the North and Baltic Seas from here. Even if the historical facts are complex, the Störtebeker legend continues to shape the self-image of Marienhafe and the entire Störtebekerland region.

The Störtebeker Church — Landmark of the Town

The mighty 13th-century brick church of St. Marien dominates the townscape. Its tower was originally much higher and served as a landmark for seafarers. Today, it houses a small museum about the Störtebeker legend and can be climbed. During the street festival, the church tower is the focal point of the festive backdrop.

Colourful Festival Programme

The street festival combines tradition with lively folk festival culture. Local bands, musicians, and acrobats perform on several stages and squares. Medieval influences – jesters, blacksmiths, archers – recall the Störtebeker era. Stalls offer arts and crafts, jewellery, and regional products. The gastronomy ranges from East Frisian classics like Mettwurst (mettwurst sausage) and Krabbenbrötchen (shrimp rolls) to sweet specialities and cool drinks. For children, there are bouncy castles, play stations, and small hands-on activities.

A Festival for the Entire Region

The Störtebeker Street Festival is an important date in the event calendar of the Brookmerland municipality and attracts visitors from the entire Aurich district, from the coast, and from the East Frisian Islands. It is a festival that makes the connection between history, region, and the present visible.