Stoppelmarkt in Vechta

The Stoppelmarkt in Vechta is one of the oldest folk festivals in Germany and dates back to the 13th century. Every year in August, the six-day festival attracts around 800,000 visitors to the Westerheide in Vechta. The history of the market is interesting: in 1577, it was moved to a field outside the city walls due to the plague, where only stubble remained. The 2023 Stoppelmarkt was one of the most successful markets according to local officials.

The main attractions of the Stoppelmarkt include the "Wild Mouse" family rollercoaster and "Wilhelm's Riesenrad", a large Ferris wheel. There is also a large parade with floats, bands and foot groups, which traditionally opens the Stoppelmarkt.

The Stoppelmarkt Shooting Club, which has been in existence since 1955, demonstrates the tradition of sport shooting during the festival. There is also a tradition of issuing a Stoppelmarkt pin, a collector's badge that represents the historical significance of the market.