Stoppelmarkt 2025: Prime Minister Lies opens the traditional festival!

Stoppelmarkt 2025: Prime Minister Lies opens the traditional festival!

The Stoppelmarkt in Vechta, one of the largest folk festivals in Northern Germany, opens its doors on Thursday, August 13, 2025 and promises a week full of activities, fun and tradition. Prime Minister Olaf Lies will give the ceremonial speech and welcome the numerous visitors to this spectacle.

With an impressive history that dates back to 1298, the Stoppelmarkt captivates around 800,000 people every year. Over 500 showmen are represented on a market area of ​​160,000 square meters. The highlights include 20 restaurant tents and a number of large rides that provide thrills and culinary delights.

Traditional opening and new formats

A special treat at the Stoppelmarkt is the traditional parade, which begins at 2:30 p.m. on the opening day. The guest of honor at this ceremonial opening is Silvia Breher, Parliamentary State Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Community. In addition, around 1,000 invited guests from politics, business and administration are expected.

This year there is a significant change: the traditional horse and livestock market has been replaced by an animal show, which runs from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 18th. This premiere will take place in the current area of ​​the horse and livestock market and focuses on current developments in the area of ​​animal welfare. Various local clubs and groups will take part.

Sociability and security

The Stoppelmarkt is not only a place to celebrate, but also a place to meet. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to enjoy culinary delights and exciting rides. Visiting a folk festival is often free, but the rides have to be paid for individually. The attractions include the Ferris wheel, roller coasters and ghost trains. The description as a folk festival underlines the character of this event - from sausage stands to festival tents, the heart of conviviality beats. Here you can meet up with friends, enjoy your time and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

Another important aspect this year is the introduction of an awareness team to ensure the safety and well-being of guests. Recognizable by their green and yellow vests, they are there to help all visitors. In addition, a relaxation room is provided to enable guests to have a pleasant break.

A traditional folk festival that has its origins in fairs is also known as a fair or fair, and the Stoppelmarkt follows these traditions with a modern twist. You can also visit the Stoppelmarkt, where life has been celebrated for 727 years!

For further information about the animal show and to register exhibition stands, those interested can contact the city of Vechta:

• Carsten Thöle: 04441/886-1301, E-Mail: marktverwaltung@vechta.de
• Melissa Sprengel: 04441/886-1305, E-Mail: marktverwaltung@vechta.de

Further details and information can also be found in the reports from NDR, Stubble market as well as Northern Germany vacation.