81st Anniversary of the Liberation and the End of WW2

Already on Wednesday, 6 May, the first of our guests arrived for this year's memorial celebrations. As every year, we had prepared a varied programme for everyone. It was impressive to see how many guests had travelled to share this special weekend with us. The evening before the memorial celebrations, we spent together in Engerda. Here, the team from Passione spoiled us with selected, delicious dishes and the chef himself ensured a great atmosphere with charming entertainment. It was a successful evening full of good conversations, warm encounters and culinary delights. Thank you!

On 9 May 2026, impressive commemorative events were held in Kahla and the surrounding area to mark the 81st anniversary of liberation and the end of the Second World War. Guests from all over Europe took part, sending a strong signal of shared remembrance and solidarity. A particular highlight was the laying of wreaths by our association for various national representations, symbolically commemorating the victims and historical events. Our association organised this together with representatives of the affected nations, thereby impressively emphasising the significance of the remembrance.

The weather was at its best – in bright sunshine we enjoyed a joint lunch in Großeutersdorf, which gave us the opportunity for exchange and encounter. We thank Jens Hild and his lovely team for the excellent hospitality. 

The memorial sites in the communities of Eichenberg and Hummelshain provided a truly fitting setting for the various speeches, so that the words of the speakers were particularly impressive. The blessing by the respective pastors gave the whole event a special, personal touch and created a moving moment. The programme was rounded off with musical accompaniment featuring bagpipe music, which created a charming atmosphere and wonderfully highlighted the occasion. Many thanks to everyone who participated and made the celebrations possible.

We were especially pleased by the participation of our three project students from Rudolstadt. In their seminar work, they deal intensively with the topic of REIMAHG and forced labour. Their special commitment to remembrance showed that our support and guidance within their project work are recognised and passed on.

The emotional day concluded with a final, mainly social gathering with our many guests at the Linzmühle in Leubengrund. Our heartfelt thanks also go to Ricarda and her team in the kitchen for the varied and delicious buffet.

We extend our sincere gratitude for the speeches and blessing to Pastor Wedding, Pastor Hoffmann, and Pastor Barke. We also thank all the mayors, helpers, and supporters who contributed to the success of the day, as well as all the participants for attending.