CIOFF® Germany convenes in Heppenheim – Klaus Hohmeier from Schlitz elected new Chairman

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Heppenheim, September 13, 2025 – From September 12 to 14, 2025, the General Assembly of CIOFF® Germany took place in Heppenheim, Bergstraße. The meeting was marked by a spirit of renewal while honoring long-standing traditions.

Farewell and Honors

After many years of dedicated service, Norbert Müller (Heppenheim) stepped down from his position as Chairman of CIOFF® Germany. In a solemn ceremony, he was honored for his outstanding contributions to the promotion and organization of international folklore festivals in Germany. Müller was unanimously elected Honorary Chairman of CIOFF® Germany. In addition, Ioan Cocian, CIOFF® Sector Representative, presented him with the certificate of Honorary Membership of CIOFF® International. This prestigious distinction was also awarded to Susanne Kramer(Luxembourg).

Another highlight was the recognition of Jörg Lübbe, who received the CIOFF® Silver Award for his decades of commitment to the international folklore movement.

The Elters Traditional Costume Band provided a festive surprise by accompanying the farewell with a musical program.

New Executive Board

The elections marked the beginning of a new chapter for CIOFF® Germany:

  • Klaus Hohmeier (Schlitz) was elected as the new Chairman – a symbolic moment, as the office returns to the founding town of CIOFF® Germany exactly 50 years after its establishment.
  • Peter Reinhard (Elters) became Vice Chairman.
  • Dirk Hellbach (Neustadt/Holstein) was elected Treasurer.
  • Barbara Hellbach (Neustadt/Holstein) will serve as Board Member for Festival Cooperation.
  • André Eikermann (Schwalenberg) will be responsible for communication, website, and social media.
  • Marco Kowar (Bautzen) was re-elected in absentia as Board Member and will coordinate international cooperation.
  • Julian (Erlangen) was co-opted as the future representative of CIOFF® Youth.

Reflection and Exchange

In addition to the elections, the member groups reported on their participation in international festivals. They also addressed the challenges of organizing such events – particularly the growing demands regarding safety and security. The discussions highlighted the strong bonds between the groups and their shared determination to find sustainable solutions.

Many companions and long-time colleagues attended the assembly and the farewell ceremony, including Wolfgang and Sabine Otterbein, Ulla Schäfer, Anke Schlosser (TVK Schlitz), as well as representatives from folklore groups in Scheeßel, Neustadt/Holstein, Bautzen, Lausitz, Rudolstadt, Wehrheim, Heppenheim, Schwalenberg, Erlangen, Erfurt, Burg Ludwigstein, Elters, Luxembourg, and Romania.

Outlook

Delegates departed on Sunday. It has already been decided that the General Assembly 2026 will take place in Rudolstadt.

With a newly elected board, renewed momentum, and the recognition of long-standing contributors, CIOFF® Germany looks ahead with optimism – committed to strengthening cooperation among festivals and preserving intangible cultural heritage for future generations.