Zuckertütenfest in Oranienburg Castle Park

Oranienburg — Hohenzollern Residence North of Berlin

Oranienburg is the district capital of Oberhavel, around 35 kilometers north of Berlin and easily accessible by the S-Bahn line S1. The city is closely linked to the history of the Brandenburg Hohenzollerns — Oranienburg Castle, endowed in 1651 by Louise Henriette of Orange for her husband, Frederick William, the Great Elector, is one of Brandenburg's oldest Baroque castles. The castle and its park shape the cityscape and urban life to this day.

Castle Park as an Urban Green Space

With its expansive lawns, trees, and historic paths, Oranienburg Castle Park is the largest contiguous green space in the city area — an ideal location for large family-oriented events. The Zuckertütenfest uses this atmosphere to celebrate the start of school as a communal event. The historic castle facade forms the impressive backdrop for the school enrollment celebration.

Zuckertüte — An East German Educational Tradition

The Zuckertüte (often called "Schultüte" in the West) is a specifically German tradition, particularly rooted in East Germany: on the first day of school, every first-grader receives a large cone filled with sweets and small gifts — a symbolic welcome to the world of school. The tradition dates back to the early 19th century and holds a particularly firm place in the family calendar in Brandenburg, Saxony, and Saxony-Anhalt.

2026 — School Enrollment Celebration with Black-and-White Alternation

The date of the Zuckertütenfest is based on the start of the school year in Brandenburg. In 2026, the school enrollment Saturday is expected to be August 22nd. On this day, the gates of the castle park open for all Oranienburg first-graders and their families. Games, performances, gifts, and a joint festival program characterize the day. Free admission for new students, parents, and siblings. Contact: 03301 5220 041, [email protected].