Teterow in festival fever: Hechtfest and financial controversies are coming!

Teterow in festival fever: Hechtfest and financial controversies are coming!

On the weekend from June 20th to 22nd, 2025 it will be that time again: Teterow will be all about the 34th Hechtfest. If the weather is sunny, festival organizer Marco Fertig is hoping for a large number of visitors who will be able to romp around in a colorful marketplace full of attractions. The historic Mühlenviertel will function as a festival mile and offers numerous offerings, from funfair to culinary delicacies to refreshing drinks. In the evening, the “Star Magic over Teterow” is a real highlight that sets the mood.

But while most citizens want to enjoy the festival to the fullest, a political storm is brewing in the background. Three factions of the city council, namely the AfD, the Independent Teterower Faction (UTF) and Die Teterower, have issued an audit order to the city administration. The aim is to reduce the subsidy for the Hechtfest from 30,000 euros to 20,000 euros. This discussion falls into a context in which the budget plan is to be approved on June 26th, which, according to Mayor Andreas Lange, documents a balanced budget - a rarity these days.

Financial challenges shape the debate

Despite positive financial figures, the city is struggling with declining key allocations and rising costs. In order to stabilize the financial situation, city representatives are resorting to declining trade tax revenues and reserves, which are now being used up. Savings measures in the area of ​​voluntary benefits are also being discussed, where, for example, 10,000 euros are being discussed for the market of history. Mayor Lange also suggested reconsidering the subsidies for the summer festival, as there is no demand for it.

The discussions within the city council are a sign of the times. Michael Schmitus from the AfD expressed concerns that Teterow was relying on reserves of five million euros to balance the budget. The focus is now on checking various areas, such as spending on municipal technology, for cost containment.

Festival for young and old

Despite the political turbulence, the Hechtfest remains a festival for young and old. Entertainment is provided with live music, party sounds and humorous shows. As part of the festival, visitors can immerse themselves in the social atmosphere and enjoy the atmosphere that is so typical of Teterow. Marco Fertig and the team of organizers are ready to give everything to make the festival a great success this year.

After the Hechtfest, however, the discussion about the city's financial possibilities will not die down. City officials must continue to find creative solutions to get municipal finances under control while supporting traditional events like the Hechtfest. Participation in these festivities shows how important culture and community are for the citizens of Teterow.

Further information about the Hechtfest program can be found on the official website of the city of Teterow. Teterow.de offers a comprehensive overview of the events and attractions.

Another cultural treat awaits the region outside of Teterow: The Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania Festival is bringing a top-class concert with a varied program to Guhlen that promises to be a treat for the ears. This shows that summer in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is not only festive, but also musically diverse.