Nils Petersen assumes the throne of Brenkenhagen
The small town of Brenkenhagen was filled with excitement last weekend as its volunteer fire department hosted a summer festival. The festivities began on a warm Saturday morning with a communal breakfast at the residence of King Mathias Markmann and his queen Stephanie.
The highlight of the day was the annual shooting competition, where 17 shooters vied for the title of shooting king. The prestigious title remained within the Brenkenhagen fire department, with Nils Petersen emerging as the new shooting king.
The festival program was designed to entertain all ages, offering games, face painting, and even nail balancing acts. Eleven flag-bearing contingents, comprising members from neighbouring fire departments, locals, and guests, participated in the lively parade that took place in the morning. The parade was accompanied by the musical fire brigade of Grömitz, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Sebastian Rieke, the mayor, gave welcoming words during the official opening, setting the tone for the day's celebrations. The festival culminated in the crowning of a new queen or king for "King Mathias Markmann, the first".
Two new members, Yannis Bebensee and Ansgar Langhoff, were warmly welcomed into the Brenkenhagen fire department ranks. The day also saw the promotion of Joachim Plath to senior firefighter and the awarding of the 2023 Baltic Flood Memorial Medal to him.
Christian Becker was honoured for his 10 years of active service in the fire department. The evening concluded with the festival ball, where King Nils Petersen, the first, opened the dance floor, and DJ "Kazz" kept the music going until the early morning hours.
This annual event serves as a testament to the vibrant community spirit in Brenkenhagen, bringing together its residents and firefighters in a celebration of tradition and camaraderie.
During the festival, attendees could enjoy activities such as home-and-garden workshops for crafting a serene haven or adopting a more mindful lifestyle. In the evening, festivalgoers danced the night away at the festival ball, led by the crowned shooting king, Nils Petersen, and entertained by DJ "Kazz".