From 4 to 8 September 2025 the traditional Wine and Twinning Festival took place in our French partner town of Saint-Péray. A large delegation from Groß-Umstadt was there again this year – and experienced unforgettable days full of encounters, enjoyment and friendship.
Arrival and first days
As early as 27 August a small advance party of five travelled to France. They pitched their tents on the sports ground in Saint-Péray and used the days to explore the surroundings.
Highlights of this first week:
- an excursion to the Ardèche at the Pont d’Arc,
- the visit to the “Cité du Chocolat Valrhona” in Tain-l’Hermitage, with fascinating insights into the world of chocolate and numerous tastings,
- the visit to the Grotte Chauvet 2, an impressive reconstruction of the famous cave with prehistoric paintings.
Many thanks to the town of Saint-Péray for the invitation to this cultural experience!
Arrival of the Groß-Umstadt delegation
On Thursday 4 September the large delegation from Groß-Umstadt arrived: almost 60 people, some of whom had travelled by coach, camper van or car. They were accommodated in host families, hotels or on the sports ground.
In the evening we celebrated the by now traditional “choucroute” evening: with German sauerkraut, specialities and beer from the Umstadt brewery, around 200 guests from Saint-Péray and Groß-Umstadt toasted the twinning together. A festive kick-off full of warmth!
A special event: a wedding at the town hall
Friday began with a very special moment:
Jürgen Grasmück, who has nurtured close friendships with Saint-Péray for over 50 years, celebrated a symbolic wedding in the town hall of Saint-Péray. Numerous German guests and many of his French friends accompanied the ceremony.
The Chaboud winery then invited everyone to a reception with canapés and fine wines – a moving and festive day for everyone involved.
Wine market, music and coronation
On Saturday the large wine and gastronomy market opened its doors: at over 60 stands winegrowers presented the full variety of French wines.
In the evening things got festive on the market square:
- the crowning of the wine royalty,
- music and dancing,
- and finally a DJ who provided an exuberant mood.
Ceremony and hippie parade
Sunday morning was devoted to the official twinning.
At a ceremonial event at the Château de Beauregard, speakers emphasised the importance of Europe, friendship and lived twinning. Guest gifts were then handed over.
In the afternoon the Groß-Umstadt delegation took part in colourful costumes in the parade through the town. The theme was “Hippies” – and the Umstadt group delighted everyone with lots of colour and good cheer.
Farewell and outlook
On Monday 8 September it was time to say goodbye. With many new impressions, strengthened friendships and great anticipation for the next reunion, the participants set off for home.
It was a wonderful time that once again showed how valuable our partnership with Saint-Péray is. We hope that in the coming years even more people will take the opportunity to experience what lived twinning means.
👉 Save the Date: the next big reunion takes place at the Winzerfest in Groß-Umstadt!
Wine and Twinning Festival 2025 in Saint-Péray
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