Big state harvest festival in Poel and Wismar: autumn celebration for everyone!

Big state harvest festival in Poel and Wismar: autumn celebration for everyone!

The state harvest festival in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is experiencing a special premiere this year: On October 4th and 5th, 2025, the festival will be organized by three organizers for the first time, namely the island of Poel, the district of Northwest Mecklenburg and the city of Wismar. The preparations for these celebrations took more than a year. Mayor Gabriele Richter from the island of Poel, Mayor Thomas Beyer from Wismar and District Administrator Tino Schomann from northwest Mecklenburg recently presented the extensive program, which is expected to attract thousands of visitors.

The tradition is alive and thriving: the state harvest festival is celebrated in an atmospheric atmosphere on both days. On Saturday the island of Poel becomes the scene of colorful activities, while Sunday in Wismar delights with a large parade. Despite the stormy and rainy weather, the atmosphere on the island was not neglected. The participants enjoyed a farming Olympics, chicken bingo and a traditional potato peeling competition. An art event presented under the title “Island of Foam” by the artist Stephanie Lüning in the Sankt-Marien-Forum also enriches the program.

A highlight: the parade in Wismar

Sunday is all about the big parade in Wismar. More than 80 decorated harvest wagons, vintage cars and club cars are announced here, which meander through the streets. With a length of at least 800 meters, this is expected to be the longest parade in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Both holidays begin solemnly with devotions and thanksgiving services, which form the spiritual framework of the event.

The organizers also provided culinary delights. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy regional delicacies directly from the producer. From traditional celebrations to informative exhibitions on seeds, harvests and sustainable agriculture to numerous hands-on activities for young and old - the festival promises a colorful and varied program for the whole family.

Tips for visitors

The city of Wismar recommends traveling to the event by public transport, as parking spaces around the market square will be closed from Friday. On Sunday there will also be traffic restrictions between 11 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. due to the parade. The Northwest Mecklenburg District Farmers' Association will have a stand on both days and will be available to answer questions about agriculture.

Overall, the 2025 State Thanksgiving Festival promises to be a celebration of community, thanksgiving and hospitality that will fill visitors with joy and regional flair. The commitment of the organizing municipalities is clear and increases anticipation for the days ahead. Together we celebrate the result of hard work in the fields and the region's bountiful harvest.

For further information and details about the program, please visit the website NDR and Farmers' Association MV.