On 28 February 2026 everything with us was dedicated to gratitude. At the traditional volunteers’ evening the Twinning Committee celebrated all those who, through their tireless commitment last year, 2025, made our numerous activities possible in the first place. Without the strong voluntary commitment of our fellow citizens, lived twinning in Groß-Umstadt would be unthinkable. This gathering is far more than a look back for us; it is a living expression of our shared values. The commitment to genuine international understanding, a humanist worldview and deep cultural exchange with our European neighbours thrives on precisely this community, which gathered that evening in a warm atmosphere.
Culinary sociability on the Odenwald wine island
Under the charming motto “Hessian tapas”, guests were offered a wonderful regional buffet. It is a fine symbol of our togetherness that everyone present contributed something of their own to this feast while the twinning provided the matching drinks. The selection left nothing to be desired and reflected the culinary soul of our homeland. Besides creamy Kochkäse and refined delicacies around Handkäs, various fresh salads and hearty Fleischkäse were a must. A very rich dessert buffet finally formed the sweet conclusion of a thoroughly successful meal. Just as at our encounters with the partner towns, it was shown here too: good food brings people together and creates the perfect setting for deep, cross-border bonds.
A cheerful look ahead to a big European year
With lively music that people danced to at length and full of joie de vivre, the evening flew by amid stimulating conversation. We now take this palpable enthusiasm, reinvigorated, into the coming season, which holds a very special highlight for us. In 2026 the town of Groß-Umstadt marks a historic anniversary, because exactly 60 years ago the twinning with the French town of Saint-Péray was sealed. But we will also once again fill our valuable friendships with Santo Tirso in Portugal and Dicomano in Italy with plenty of life this year. We are already looking forward to celebrating the spirit of Europe in the future at major events, such as the upcoming Twinning Festival in the magnificent Wendelinuspark, together with many guests.
Become part of our international family
Europe begins right here, on our doorstep in Groß-Umstadt. Would you like to experience these wonderful international friendships up close and get involved in an open, peaceful togetherness? Then join our team and enrich our partner towns with your ideas and positive energy. We warmly invite you to accompany us on this exciting path and to actively shape intercultural exchange. Get in touch, visit our upcoming events and help build even more bridges between cultures – we are very much looking forward to meeting you!
Volunteers’ evening: Hessian tapas as thanks for lived friendship in Groß-Umstadt
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