Borkum: Klaasohm Fest – Total Geändert!
Hey Leute! So, da war ich also wieder auf Borkum, für das Klaasohm Fest. And let me tell you, things were totally different this year. I mean, completely different. Like, night and day. Seriously.
Last year, I remember it being super chill. Nice little local vibe, you know? A few food stalls, some live music – mostly traditional stuff – and a really relaxed atmosphere. I even managed to snag a killer spot right by the harbor to watch the fireworks. Pure magic. This year? Not so much.
A Sea of Change (Literally!)
This year's Klaasohm Fest felt…massive. Way more commercialized, if I'm honest. It was like they'd completely re-invented the whole thing. Instead of a cozy local event, it was a full-blown festival, with, like, a zillion people. I'm not exaggerating; it felt like the entire population of the Netherlands had decided to visit Borkum that weekend. Finding a decent spot to even stand, let alone see anything, was a nightmare. I spent ages jostling through crowds, trying to get a glimpse of the stage – which, by the way, was totally different than last year.
The New Stage – A Giant Disappointment?
Forget the charming little stage tucked away near the harbor. This year's stage was huge – a monstrous thing that dominated the entire square. It was impressive, I guess, in a kinda sterile, corporate way. But it completely lacked the intimate feel of previous years. The music, too, felt different. Less traditional, more…mainstream pop. Don't get me wrong, the bands were good, technically. But it just didn't have the same charm. It felt less authentic, more…manufactured.
What Went Wrong? (And What to Expect)
Okay, so what's the takeaway here? If you're planning a trip to Borkum for next year's Klaasohm Fest, be prepared for a very different experience than in the past. Expect crowds, expect lots of commercial activity, and expect a slightly less authentic vibe.
Here are a few tips based on my experience:
- Book accommodation WAY in advance: Seriously, this is crucial. If you're not staying on the island, getting back and forth will be a logistical nightmare. Think trains, ferries – planning is key.
- Arrive early: I can't stress this enough. If you want a decent spot for the fireworks or even just to see the stage, you'll need to arrive hours before the event starts. Bring your comfy shoes!
- Manage your expectations: This isn't the small-town festival it once was. It's evolved into a bigger, more commercialized event.
- Pack snacks and drinks: Food and drink prices will be inflated, especially at the height of the festival. Bringing your own will save you money and hassle.
It wasn't all bad though. The fireworks were still amazing, even with the massive crowd. And I did manage to find a lovely little bakery selling amazing Kranzkuchen. So it wasn't a complete disaster. But it certainly wasn't the same charming Klaasohm Fest I remembered from last year. I guess change is inevitable, huh? Maybe next year will be even more different again. Who knows? But if you’re planning to go, just go prepared. And maybe bring earplugs.