Schwerin celebrates democracy: Open state parliament day delights 15,000 guests

Schwerin celebrates democracy: Open state parliament day delights 15,000 guests

Today, June 15, 2025, numerous visitors gathered in Schwerin Castle to celebrate Open State Parliament Day to celebrate. Among them were Karola Friedrich and Horst Otto, who enthusiastically took their seats in the plenary hall and described the event as a “great experience”. State Parliament President Birgit Hesse (SPD) and her deputy Elke-Annette Schmidt (Left) also warmly welcomed the guests to the castle courtyard. Hesse took the opportunity to give visitors insights into state politics.

Visitors had the chance to tour the office of the President of the State Parliament and particularly appreciated the breathtaking views over the city. The interest was great; Many guests took the opportunity to sit at the government members' table in the state press conference room and find out more about the work of the committees and parliamentary groups. Peter Frähmke was among the guests, but he did not decide to speak. Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig (SPD) insisted on attending the event.

Castle festival from June 13th to 15th

The big event in Schwerin Castle also included that Castle Festival 2025, which took place June 13-15 and was dedicated to celebrating the newly designated UNESCO World Heritage site. On Friday evening there was an impressive light and laser production called “Son et Lumière”, inspired by the nightly performances at Chambord Castle. Emotional music and visual effects, as well as a journey through the history of the castle, portrayed by Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II, attracted numerous guests.

Saturday evening offered a special musical experience with the “Sound of Germany” show, which ranged from Bach to Kraftwerk. The two shows were free and offered visitors unique access to first-class entertainment. Saturday was also marked by a historic castle festival with over 150 members in magnificent costumes. A parade from the main train station to the palace and programs with audiences, chats with ladies-in-waiting and even a historical fashion show filled the day.

A look behind the scenes of state politics

The open day in the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania state parliament was particularly noteworthy. The event, which took place as part of the castle festival, not only gave visitors a look behind the scenes, but also conversations with members of parliament. The Niklot statue, the tea pavilion and the newly furnished conference rooms were accessible to anyone interested. In addition, the castle museum and the castle church were opened free of charge.

A colorful stage program in the castle courtyard, including the Schalmeienkapelle, rounded off the event offering. At the same time, a “Handmade” arts and crafts market took place around the Victory Column, where over 40 exhibitors presented their works daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Since the Schwerin residential ensemble has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 27, 2024, the place has gained in tourist importance. This heritage includes more than 30 historic buildings, squares and gardens and shows the diversity of residential architecture from neo-Gothic to classicism. Every visitor now has the opportunity to connect with this cultural treasure and become part of history.