Big city festival in Gotha: 1250 years of history duly celebrated!

Big city festival in Gotha: 1250 years of history duly celebrated!

Gotha will celebrate a very special anniversary in 2025: 1,250 years of city history. On the occasion of these celebrations, Mayor Knut Kreuch pointed out numerous highlights and major progress in urban development in his information report today, November 6, 2025. These are not just historical reviews, but also forward-looking projects that are moving the city forward.

At the event, which marked the end of the anniversary year with the FRIEDENSTEIN FESTIVAL, the city took stock of the diverse celebrations and the commitment of its citizens. Among other things, a parade with 96 pictures and an impressive 1,800 participants took place, which brought Gotha's history to life. There was also an impressive light installation in Friedenstein Castle, which creatively showcased the city's history. The highlight was the ceremony “1250 Years of Gotha – The Journey through Time”, at which the popular singer Roland Kaiser was awarded the “Der Friedenstein” prize. Gotha.de reports that…

Economic developments

But Gotha not only looks to the past, but also to the future. The mayor pointed out the various economic developments. A new railway repair shop will be built on Südstrasse, which will create jobs and strengthen the region. In addition, the Bystronic location is being expanded and Sauerländer Span Platten GmbH plans to create 200 new jobs. Today the VHS educational center in Gotha is also celebrating its 35th birthday, which can also be seen as a sign of the city's educational efforts.

The city of Gotha is investing heavily in infrastructure: the expansion of the roads in the GothA4 industrial area and the completion of new lanes and turning lanes on Dr.-Troch-Straße are already in full swing. In addition, five kilometers of new cycle paths with red cycle lanes have been created on the city's 200 kilometer road network. Gotha-Adelt reports on the Baroque Festival, which takes place annually in late summer and keeps the city's tradition alive with culture and festivals.

A look at the celebrations

For the younger people of Gotha and the whole family, the annual Baroque festival, which is celebrated on the last weekend in August, cannot be missed. The Friedenstein Castle Foundation transformed the castle into the residence of Duke Friedrich III. of Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg. Historical traders and craftsmen present their arts and products, an experience that immerses visitors in historical times. This festival lasts two days and impresses with a varied program. There are also many other cultural highlights in the festival year, such as exhibitions in the KunstForum and an Ekhof Festival, which honor the city's anniversary. Gotha Aktuell provides information about the plans and highlights of the festival year.

Of course, it is also important to keep an eye on the challenges. With a call for budgetary discipline and clarification of the financial challenges, especially with regard to a district levy increase of over 2 million euros, the city remains looking for funding in order to be able to successfully implement future projects.

All in all: A year full of memories, celebrations and setting the course for Gotha is coming up! Citizens are invited to take an active part in what is happening and to enjoy the special atmosphere of this time.