Anne Baumann honored as a "self-confessed Heiner" – beer tapping kicks off five great days
With music, a great atmosphere, and a true Heinerfest spirit, the 76th Darmstadt Heinerfest was officially opened on Thursday. In pleasant summer temperatures, numerous visitors came to the Heinergadde on Karolinenplatz to celebrate the start of the traditional inner-city festival.
Moderator Florian Harz welcomed, among others, festival president Felix Hotz, mayor Hanno Benz, and the chairwoman of the Darmstadt Showmen's Association, Silke Coutandin-Hausmann, to the official opening. The appropriate musical accompaniment was provided by "Rusty Brass" from Darmstadt's Italian twin city of Brescia.
Following the speech by Mayor Hanno Benz, one of the most traditional moments of the Heinerfest took center stage: the awarding of the title of "Confessed Heiner." This year, Anne Baumann received this special honor. The Darmstadt native is well-known to many, especially for her long-standing service on the board of SV Darmstadt 98.
With this award, the Darmstadt Heritage Association honors prominent figures from Darmstadt who have made outstanding contributions to the city. Anne Baumann thus joins the long list of "true Darmstadt natives.".
The traditional tapping of the first keg then followed. After four strong blows from Mayor Benz, the keg was tapped – and the Heinerfest 2026 was officially opened.
Until Monday evening, Darmstadt's city center will once again be transformed into a large meeting place for all residents of Darmstadt and guests from the region – with music, rides, encounters and many special moments.
(DARMSTADT – RED)
