Anniversary: 1175 Years of the Municipality — Multi-day Volksfest at the Village Community Centre
Wilsum was first mentioned in official documents in the 9th century, making it one of the oldest documented settlements in the Niedergrafschaft Bentheim region. The village is located very close to the Dutch border and has a long agricultural tradition. With the municipality's 1175th birthday, the annual Volksfest in 2026 gains a special significance and is transformed into a multi-day anniversary celebration.
The festival is jointly organised by five Wilsum clubs. This means the programme benefits from the experience and volunteer structures of various club traditions — from the rifle club and the football club to the local heritage and carnival club, and the rural youth organisation. This broad base of organisers ensures a diverse programme and widespread identification within the Wilsum community.
The highlight on April 30th is the 'Tanz in den Mai' with DJ Marlon and MDW. The festival tent at the village community centre will become a dance floor, with admission costing €10. By transitioning into the May Day holidays, the festival connects with a tradition that has been cherished in the region for generations.
Saturday, May 2nd, combines a Darts Cup during the day with 'Wilsumer Nacht' in the evening. 'Wilsumer Nacht' with a live band will be celebrated in the festival tent, with admission at €8. This gives the festival an additional musical focus on the central weekend evening.
The concluding Sunday, May 3rd, brings together the various programme strands: A church service in the festival tent opens the day, followed by a brunch featuring regional specialities. In the afternoon, a football match and children's activities are scheduled, ensuring that families also have a varied Sunday experience.
The extended format is a direct response to the exceptional anniversary occasion. Instead of a classic weekend Volksfest, the organiser has opted for a six-day structure that incorporates different programme items and target groups.
The 'Tanz in den Mai' on April 30th with DJ Marlon and MDW is considered the emotional highlight of the festival week. The transitional ritual into the May Day holidays has a long tradition in the region, and the anniversary year enhances the significance of this date.
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