Elandsfest turns friendship into a much-loved tradition
Image of men dressed in traditional German garb playing brass instruments.
Some of the best community traditions start simply – with friends, neighbours, good food and a shared love of getting together.
That is certainly the case with Elandsfest, which has grown from a small gathering into a much-loved annual celebration of German traditions, family fun and community spirit.
Held at Wildsheim Game Farm, the festival, traditionally staged in May, brings people of all ages together for a day of outdoor activities, entertainment, food and plenty of time to catch up with friends.
Organiser Philip Voigts said the event had grown steadily since its humble beginnings.
“From very small beginnings with a few friends and neighbours, we are wanting to grow this traditional German Bierfest organically and make it an annual event on the calendar,” he said.
Elandsfest offers something for everyone, with a hike and trail run through the scenic game farm, while the popular water slide provides fun for young and old.
Food is another important part of the occasion, with visitors able to enjoy a variety of food stalls, traditional German cakes and coffee prepared by members of the congregation.
A brass band adds to the atmosphere, while activities such as clay pigeon shooting and giant foosball keep visitors entertained throughout the day.
For children, one of the most memorable traditions is the lantern walk, which provides a magical way to round off the celebrations as evening falls.
Meet Cordula
Then there is Cordula – a 1976 Volkswagen Kombi that has become the unofficial mascot of Elandsfest and a firm favourite among festival-goers.
Still running on its traditional air-cooled engine, Cordula recently reached the milestone of turning 50, an occasion marked with a birthday cake.
“The Kombi is still running on its traditional air-cooled engine and turns 50 years old this year, which is why we had a birthday cake for her,” said Voigts.
Named after a popular song, Cordula has been part of the Elandsfest story from the beginning.
“It was an idea from the get-go and has become a firm favourite with the kids, as well as the big kids, who enjoy going on little trips with music and singing along.”
