Germany: Guide for the Weekend 18th - 20th September

Sunday, is Weltkindertag (World Children's Day) in Germany, towns across OWL & NRW are hosting special events over the weekend. 

Paderborn Children's Sports Festival 20th September 

Head to the Goldgrund Sports Park in Paderborn this Sunday. From 2pm-5pm kids will have the chance to try out a range of sports at the Paderborn Sports Club Turnverein 1875.

Paderborn Weltkindertag Fest 

On Saturday 26th September Paderborn celebrates World Children's Day at the Rathaus and by the Theodorianum Gymnasium  from 11am to 3.30pm.

There will be many colourful activities for children and various information stands from Paderborn institutions and associations on the town hall square and the schoolyard of the Theodorianum Gymnasium.

Germany: Weekend Events Guide 11th - 13th September

Enjoy a selection of events this weekend all close to home. If you are heading to the Park run this weekend you can  delicious treats afterwards. 

This weekend head to a Pumpkin festival  in Bad Lippspringe or a street food day at Schloss Neuhaus.For fans of wine head to Oerlinghausen. ABBA fans can sing the night away in Bielefeld. Blomberg hosts a yearly fun fair and market. Hovelhof hosts an Airshow with a difference. 

All these events are under 40 mins drive time from Sennelager.

Bad Lippspringe Pumpkin Festival 

Where: Gartenschau Bad Lippspringe

Featuring 11 massive and fiery pumpkin sculptures. You can spot carved pumpkin versions of childhood heroes like Fireman Sam, animals like the pumpkin fire fish and a massive blazing volcano.

Special Event: Don't miss the festive musical opening ceremony on Sunday, September 13th at 3:00 PM featuring a live fire department music troop.

Copyright Bad Lippspringe

Cheat Day Street Food Festival

Where: Schlosspark Schloss Neuhaus

The popular Cheat Day Street Food Festival turns palace park into a foodie heaven. Around a dozen food trucks are serving up international dishes, from juicy burgers and crispy pizzas to sweet waffly treats and churros.

Grab a bite and enjoy relaxed DJ beats on Friday night, a live music band on Saturday, and tons of family-friendly entertainment on Sunday, entry is free.

Weinbergfest Oerlinghausen

Where: Rathausplatz, Oerlinghausen  /  21 mins 

The town hall square in Oerlinghausen has been transformed into a beautiful, small wine village.

Relax in a large, illuminated 150-square-meter wine lounge. Wine experts are on-site all weekend to help you taste and choose from a fantastic selection of red, white, and rosé options paired with local delicacies.

Copyright Stadt Oerlinghausen

Mamma Mia ABBA Night Bielefeld

Where: Prime - Dance & Nightlife, Bielefeld  / 32 mins drive 

Calling all Dancing Queens. The massive European "Gimme Gimme Party" tour is stopping in Bielefeld this Saturday night, September 12 at 8:00 PM.

An  ABBA-inspired concert and sing-along party. Prepare for over two hours of live singing, dancing, a brilliant LED show, and loud crowd sing-alongs to classics like Waterloo, Mamma Mia, and more.

Copyright Gimme Gimme Party

Widbasen Marktfair Blomberg

Wilbasen Fair, Blomberg / 39 mins drive

The legendary Wilbaser Marktfair kicks off this weekend, running from Friday 11th - 14th

Spanning four action-packed days, the funfair features exciting rides a live music marquee  beer tents and food stalls, Plus a big market to shop for artisan crafts alongside  other market goods. 

The fairgrounds open up at noon on Saturday and Sunday, staying lively into the night. Keep an eye out on Sunday afternoon as the German champions from the local handball club, HSG Blomberg-Lippe, host a massive autograph session right inside the festival tent.

Copyright Lippe District

Model Aircraft Airshow 

The Annual Heideflieger Airshow / 20 mins drive

Every September, the sky over Hovelhof  transforms into a  show of speed, precision, and miniature engineering. The annual Heideflieger Airshow, hosted by the MFG Heideflieger-Hövelhof e.V., is one of the region's most beloved community traditions. 

Brunssum and EU locations: Last BFPO Posting dates for Christmas 2026

Due to expected disruption to BFPO from 1st November, the final posting date for Christmas 2026 is October 30th, 2026.

Anything posted beyond October 30th cannot be guaranteed to arrive in time for Christmas and may not be delivered until after the New Year.

It is also advised to expect higher demand and disruption to BFPO deliveries between October and December 2026.

The Government provides detailed information on measurements, restricted items and instructions on how to use BFPO.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Germany: Grounds Maintenance Update: Gutter Clearance Schedule

📢 Grounds Maintenance Update: Gutter Clearance Schedule

The Grounds Maintenance Team will begin gutter clearance works in the occupied Service Family Accommodation (SFA) starting next week.

Here is the planned schedule:

• Phase 1 (Next 2 weeks): Work will start at An der Grimke, followed by Trotha, Londoner, and Thuner Weg.

• Phase 2 (Following phase): Once Phase 1 is complete, the team will move on to Löseke and Ring Str.

We appreciate your understanding regarding the short notice. Previous works progressed faster than anticipated, allowing us to start this next phase early.

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. Please ensure access to your gutters is clear where possible.

Germany: Weekend Guide 4th - 6th September

September is a great month in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW). The weather is cooling down, and cities across the region are throwing street festivals. Expect thrill rides, delicious food stalls, and traditional markets.

Here are some great events you can visit with friends and family this weekend.

Google Map Link 

14th German Cheese Market (Deutscher Käsemarkt) Nieheim

Prepare for the largest cheese buffet in the country! The historic town of Nieheim takes centre stage with the highly anticipated Deutscher Käsemarkt, gathering over 60 traditional, artisanal cheesemakers and elite vintners from various countries. You can sample everything from sharp, hand-crafted cheeses to perfectly paired regional wines while wandering through beautiful, historic alleyways.

📅 Date: Friday, September 4 to Sunday, September 6, 2026

⏰ Time: Friday: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

📍 Venue: Historic Old Town / Innenstadt Nieheim

💰 Ticket Price: Affordable day or weekend wristbands are available; kids under 16 get in free! Grab your passes ahead of time on the Nieheim Tourism Portal.

© City of Nieheim/Besim Mazhiqi

Germany: Weekend Guide 28th- 30th August

Late-August Family Weekend Guide: 

Summer is winding down, but the family fun is just getting started! If you are looking for the perfect way to spend the upcoming weekend,  you are in luck. From historical fairy tales to glowing light displays and bustling carnivals, local towns are packing this weekend with unforgettable experiences. 

Google map link

Use this link to find locations and plan journey times 

Germany: Guide to the Weekend

Food and festivals are the theme for events this weekend. Locally a Winefest and a British Weekend are the local highlights to enjoy.

Paderborner Weindorf

Independent winemakers from across Germany are setting up shop to serve premium vintages. Pair your glass with ambient live music, local culinary snacks, and lingering late-summer nights.

• Dates: Friday, August 21st to Sunday, August 23rd, 2026
• Opening Hours: Friday and Saturday from 3:00 PM to midnight; Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
• Ticket Cost: Free admission.

Copyright SCHLOSSPARK UND LIPPESEE GESELLSCHAFT MBH

Fire in bin collection truck prompts new campaign

 🔥 Batteries do not belong in the trash!

Many everyday items like headphones, e-cigarettes, and tools have batteries. If you throw them in the regular garbage, they can get crushed and start dangerous fires. This puts waste workers and your neighbourhood in danger!

Paderborn's Waste Management (ASP) needs your help to stay safe:

• No batteries in trash: Never put loose batteries or electronics in regular bins.
• Use recycling centers: Take old batteries and devices to retail stores or ASP centers for free.
• Remove when possible: Take out removable batteries before recycling the device.
• Tape the ends: Put tape over lithium battery terminals to prevent short circuits.
• Let's protect our local waste collectors and save raw materials!

👉 Visit the ASP website to learn more.

Sennelager HIVE What’s On Update

Sennelager HIVE What’s On Update: Mid-August Highlights!

Welcome to your latest Sennelager HIVE community update. We have  garrison notices, local weekend events, and two days out good for families.

Garrison Notices

• WRVS Closure: The WRVS centre is closed for annual leave starting today, August 13th, through August 21st.
• Welcome Padre Mike: New Padre Mike Jenkinson has arrived in the garrison. You can drop by and find him at Brydon House.

Local Events & Weekend Activities

Landpartie Schloss Neuhaus (August 13th – 16th)
Experience boutique shopping, live music, and refreshing drinks in a stunning castle setting. It is the perfect place to gather style inspiration.

• Tickets: €13 in advance / €15 on the day.

Copyright Schlosspark Paderborn

Schiedersee Music Weekend (Friday & Saturday)

Head down to the Schiedersee lake area this Friday and Saturday evening for a fantastic weekend of live music and waterside vibes. Two acoustic performances to choose from. entry is free. You will find a bar and restaurant, holiday homes and Funtastico Park. Entry to the lake area is free, Park entry €13.90 and €12 for under 16.

• Drivetime 42 mins

Kids Pirate Festival at Maxipark (Sunday, 2 PM – 6 PM)
Bring the little ones out for a pirate adventure this Sunday. Activities include live performers and interactive craft stations where kids can build their own pirate gear.

• Tickets: €7 for adults / €4 for children.
• Weather Note: If heavy rain occurs, the entire event will move indoors.

• Drivetime 40 mins

Germany: Event Guide For The Weekend

Discover 4 great events for this weekend!

Looking for the perfect weekend getaway or an exciting day trip? Four are happening near you. Whether you love wine, beer, movies or family fun, there is something for everyone.

33rd Annual Bad Salzuflen Wine Festival 6th - 9th Aug 

Experience the cozy atmosphere of a traditional wine festival right in the heart of Bad Salzuflen. At the historic Salzhof in sample elite selections from 18 German vineyards alongside 10 regional food stalls. To celebrate its anniversary, the festival features a massive, elegant "White-Wheel" Ferris wheel offering a stunning panoramic view of the historic architecture. Sunday even features an open-shop day for local boutiques. 

Copyright Stadt Bad Salzuflen

It is the largest wine festival in the region, enjoy live music and food in old town square.

• Drive time 40 mins

The Historic Laurentiuskirmes in Bergisch Gladbach 8th - 11th Aug

Bring the whole family out to the fair in Bergisch Gladbach. Celebrating its status on Germany's nationwide register of Cultural Heritage, the historic Laurentiuskirmes opens with a traditional church mass and free breakfast. 

Shortly after, the mayor taps the festival beer cask to kick off days of fast-paced amusement rides, bright carousels, game booths, and traditional sweets.

Copyright Stadt Bergisch Gladbach

• Enjoy a mini Libori in a town not far from Cologne
• Drive time just under 2 hours

The 26th Annual Cologne Beer Börse 7th - 9th Aug 

The banks of the Rhine River become your personal beer garden this weekend. Situated right along Cologne's scenic Rhine Promenade, this multi-day open-air festival features 40 master breweries setting up shop. You can sample more than a hundred rare, local, and international specialty beers. Tastings range from traditional German monastery brews to exotic imports from Spain and Brazil.

• Timings: Friday & Saturday, 15:00 – 00:00 Sunday 13:00 – 20:00)
• Ticket Prices: Free Entry to the festival grounds; you only pay for what you drink.
• Drive time just under 2 hours

Copyright bierboerse.com

Maxipark Movie Day 9th Aug

Head to the ever popular family park in Hamm for this Movie themed event. Lots of Star Warts dress up on hand. with market stall and events for the kids.  Park tickets include entry to the event.

Copyright  Maxipark Hamm

400 Cosplayers will be putting on a show in full authentic costumes. The market includes the chance to buy a light saber and many other bits of movie memorabilia.  Other highlights include cars from TV shows, a droid exhibition and a kids space flight activity.  All this plus the fantastic play areas, gardens and butterfly house make Maxipark a great day out. 

• Drive time is 54 mins
• Tickets €7 for adults €4 for ages 3-17

France: Wildfires in Gironde

France travel advice

Change made:

Removal of information about wildfires affecting parts of Gironde and Landes

Germany: Guide to Libori 2026

The Libori festival in Paderborn is a nine-day celebration that blends a holy church festival with a massive funfair. This historic event honors Saint Liborius, whose relics arrived here from France in the year 836A.D. For locals, Libori is known as Paderborn’s "fifth season".

The 2026 Libori festival runs from Saturday, 25th July to Sunday, 2nd August.

The Story Behind the Festival

Libori is one of Germany’s oldest and largest folk festivals. In 836.A.D, the bones of Saint Liborius were brought from Le Mans, France, to the Paderborn Cathedral. This act created a bond between the two cities that has survived for over a thousand years.

   

Today, it is a unique mix of church, culture, and carnival.

What's On: Church events

• The Opening Vesper: Saturday, 25th July at 15:00. Priests raise the golden shrine of Saint Liborius from the cathedral crypt.
• The Solemn Procession: Sunday, 26th July at 09:00. Faithful followers carry the Golden Shrine through the old town streets.

© BESIM MAZHIQI

Germany: Libori 2026

 Libori 2026 

All the information needed to have a great time at this years festivities is here.

The celebration is a mix of religious ceremony and non religious events over a nine day period.

Opening day is the 25th Jul  at 3pm  the procession and enshrinement of St Liborious relics. The Golden shrine is carried on the shoulders of bearers who take the shrine to the Dom.

At  4.30pm the giant Beer barrel is tapped and the  beer guardians serve the crowd. Purchase you commemorative mug from the tourism office this week or on the day and join the que. 

The fair has a soft launch at 12 noon but really comes to life in the evening. This year 150 rides attractions and food stalls lead the entertainment. 

The main concert stage is at the Rathaus. National and local bands perform every night, all the shows are free to attend.  Performers and more music are available on Westerner Str.

PaderSprinter have a range of tickets to get you to and from the celebrations each day. Additional night bus services are running to get you home late night. 

Beer Fountain

The beer flows daily, but the timing changes depending on the day of the week.

• First Weekend: 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
• Weekdays (Mon–Fri): 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
• Second Weekend: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM 

Waiting in line to get your official mug refilled by the traditional "Jubelhennesse" figures is a  rite of passage. While you hang out and sip your drink, the atmosphere is electric. Local brass bands, orchestras, and music clubs rotate daily to keep the crowd dancing. Plus, festival sponsors are hosting live interviews, stages, games, and daily prize giveaways.

Key websites and links 

Libori app  you can download the app. It is only German Language does have a handy map and event listing. Android or iOS versions available.

Germany: Guide for the Weekend

With a World Cup quarter final  the focus of many family weekends for non football lovers, two days of good weather offers a great chance to get out and see some more of Germany.  

This week we have a mini focus on Hannover with a Schutzenfest and Lake festival to enjoy.

Sennelager HIVE will be closed next week. The Community support Team are on hand to help with any questions whilst HIVE is away. 

In this update we have included events all the way through July. 

Garrison Notes

• World Cup -The Senne Arms opens 4pm to 1am for the Eng v Nor the “Row vs the Roar". The Bar closes strictly at 1am and the facility will remain open if Extra time and Pens are required.
• Open air Cinema and the World Cup final from BFBS on the 18th July.
• Coach trip to Osnabruck Zoo is cancelled and will be moved to another date which will be shared.
• Last Paint and Sip event before Kellie takes a well-deserved summer break will be on the 24th Book now as places will go fast.
• The Last Places for Leeds Rhinos activity week and the AWS summer provision €50 per child per event. Contact Rachel in Brydon House to book.
• Raccoon traps  have been placed across the estate please do not feed them they do carry parasites harmful to domestic animals and potentially for humans also.

Other Events

Schutzenfest in Paderborn this weekend. The full list of events and tickets to paid events can be found on the website.

Schutzenfest Hannover and massive funfair until the 12th In Hannover. 497th anniversary.

90s Outdoor fest at Schloss Neuhaus – Lou Bega, Rednex and more play the chart soundtrack of the 90s tickets available online at €55 pp Sat 18th July.

School Holiday Party at the outdoor pool in Bad Wunerburg A Free entry event for the kids. Music and games will be laid on with food and drink available to buy on site. Drive Time is approx 30 mins.

School Holiday Water Fun At the Rietberg Gartenschau 

(Head to the large slide in the North Section of the park 30 mins drivetime)

Every day until and including Sunday, August 30th, the water attractions will be set up near the large slide tower. From 12 pm to 7 pm, kids can ride the waterslide, get splashed on various bouncy castles, zoom from the mouth of the totally harmless shark directly into the pool, take a spin in small electric boats, or balance in giant water balls. The equipment is suitable for children aged 3 and up; parents are responsible for their children

©Rietberg Garten Schau

For the rest of July 

Libori starts on the 25th July in Paderborn with the raising of the Golden shrine at the Dom. The shrine is then processed through the city to mark the opening of the Libori celebrations. Later the same day  paraded through the city while the mayor will tap the Giant keg.

© BESIM MAZHIQI

Machseefest in Hannover the giant food and music festival starts in Hannover. Around the city lake pop up bars and restaurants offer delicious food and drink. Boat taxis ferry the guests between the lake shores. Runs 22nd Jul to 9th Aug. Visit the website for full details.

Hannover offers UK travelers the perfect city break, seamlessly blending rich history with vibrant urban culture. Deep ties to the British Crown through the 1714 Act of Settlement, you can walk in the footsteps of George I at the Herrenhausen Gardens, a Baroque masterpiece rivaling Versailles. 

Explore the red-brick Gothic architecture of the Old Town, follow the "Red Thread" walking tour to the striking New Town Hall, or relax by the sprawling Maschsee lake. Accessible, green, and packed with royal heritage, Hannover is Germany’s best-kept secret.

Germany: Sennelager Weekend Guide

Welcome to your weekly Sennelager HIVE update. Time for the Summer Fete on Saturday with plenty of things to do in the Paderborn area on Sunday too. The weather should be cooler over the weekend. 

 
Garrison Events

Zumba Class: Join Sylvia at the Normandy Bks gym this Thursday at 12:15 PM. Send her a Facebook message or email to sign up.

The Summer Fete: This is the massive summer event for our families! Head over this Saturday, July 4th, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Kids can enjoy a carousel, bouncy castles, and bungee jump trampolines. There will be prizes, food from the fabulous Taste of the world tent. 

Plus food from NAAFI available for purchase with drinks (Card only payments). No dogs allowed. 

What's On in Paderborn This Weekend 

• Sunday, July 5th is full of festival fun  with the HNF Summer Festival: The Heinz Nixdorf Museum meadow turns into a giant playground from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Kids can race on an 85-meter inflatable obstacle course. Enjoy human foosball, face painting, and crafts. Entry is free. Only 10 mins drive 

• International Festival at Schloss Neuhaus: Taste amazing food from around the world from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Enjoy live music, kids' choirs, and drum concerts at the Fountain Theatre.
  

  
  
  

• Skate & BBQ at Goldgrund Park: Watch professional and amateur skaters compete from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Grab some tasty barbecue while you watch.

                                                         

• Blueberry Picking:  You can pick fresh Blueberries starting Friday at 8:00 AM. Head to Bioland Hof Herber in Salzkotten, just 30 minutes away

Quick Garrison Reminders

• Conserve Water: Please be mindful of your hose pipe and indoor water usage.
• Get Your Fridge Magnet: Missing your Emergency Contacts magnet? Pick one up at Brydon House. It has all the vital numbers for you.

Gerrmany: Overseas Families Virtual Briefing

 

Germany: Water Conservation in SFA

 Water Conservation Reminder 💧

With the recent hot weather, we’d like to remind all personnel, families, and visitors that water is a valuable resource. Please use it responsibly.

Simple actions can make a big difference:

• Take shorter showers
• Only run washing machines and dishwashers with full loads
• Turn off taps when not in use
• Avoid watering lawns and gardens
• Refrain from topping up paddling pools and swimming pools unnecessarily

By working together and using water wisely, we can protect supplies, reduce demand, and ensure there’s enough water for everyone across the garrison.

Water is especially precious in Service Family Accommodation. Even small issues like dripping taps or running toilets can waste significant amounts if left unreported.

If you notice any leaks or faults, please report them immediately to the MITIE Helpdesk. Prompt reporting helps conserve water, reduce costs, and maintain a comfortable living environment for all.

Thank you for your support and cooperation in protecting this vital resource

VIRTUAL CHAT HV and Virtual New Parents Group

SSAFA's Virtual New Parent Group Sessions are open to all military families living in remote areas as a way to connect with other parents in similar situations. Although there will be a health visitor present to answer any questions, the floor is open to talk about whatever you want - from sleep, feeding or just general parental frustrations with no judgment or anything.

Our online CHAT HV sessions are open to all military parents across all time zones. These informal sessions cover a different topic each month to help guide and support you through the different stages of your parenting journey. These are a great way for you to meet other families from around the world and make connections, especially when living in a host country that has different practices with regards to new mum groups etc.

If anyone wants anymore information or to register for an online session, please either speak to your Health Visitor or email us on UKStratCom-DMS-DPHC-NYG-SSAFA@mod.gov.uk

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

The Global Support Organisation Guides.

The Global Support Organisation (GSO) supports and enables Ministry of Defence (MOD) personnel and UK Defence activity overseas.

With a guide available for the following Countries.

Belgium

Germany

Italy

Portugal

Scandinavia

Spain

Turkey

Please follow this link to read a guide.

SSAFA CHAT HV is Back

Parenting overseas can feel hard. You may be far from family, friends, or the support you’re used to. That’s why CHAT HV is back. It gives you easy, friendly access to a UK Health Visitor, even when you’re living abroad.

What is CHAT HV?

CHAT HV is a simple online chat where you can talk to a trained Health Visitor. You can ask questions about sleep, feeding, crying, behaviour, or anything that’s worrying you. Nothing is too small.