The city of Idar-Oberstein's second Christmas party for senior citizens was once again very popular. Mayor Frank Frühauf welcomed around 400 guests to the Idar-Oberstein exhibition center on the third Saturday in Advent.
For the event, one of the exhibition halls was decorated for Christmas and cakes, sandwiches and drinks were on offer. There was also an entertaining supporting program. In terms of organization, the needs of the older generation were met this year by bringing the event forward to the early hours of noon to save those who had come by car from having to drive in the dark. The joint Christmas party for senior citizens aged 65 and over was initiated by the Idar-Oberstein Senior Citizens' Advisory Council and organized by the Idar-Oberstein Youth Welfare Office under the direction of Michael Schweizer and the Idar-Oberstein Fair under the direction of Mirko Arend.
In his welcoming address, Frühauf thanked all those involved and emphasized the importance of events like this, especially in light of the fact that one crisis seems to chase the next: "But it is precisely in these crises that we can always experience positive things. How we stick together here in Idar-Oberstein and help each other. Today we want to leave crisis mode behind and enjoy a few carefree hours."
After the speech, the Tiefenstein Music Association under the direction of Martin Wendel entertained the guests with Christmas carols ranging from "O du fröhliche" to "Feliz Navidad". But above all, the guests took the opportunity to enjoy pleasant conversations. Whether old school friends, former neighbors or work colleagues: As in the previous year, there were many joyful encounters. Lord Mayor Frühauf took plenty of time to talk to the senior citizens present, who expressed their gratitude to him for such an event, which the Lord Mayor replied to in his speech: "Christmas would not be the same without you, dear senior citizens. It is you who have shaped our city and enrich us with your experiences and stories. Your zest for life and your wisdom are a gift that we here greatly appreciate," emphasized Frühauf.
After the musical prelude, the rope skippers from TV-Oberstein, under the direction of Steffi Ackermann, provided enthusiasm with their dance and show interludes. This was followed by the Bachwagge with their well-known melodies from the world of pop music, local songs in dialect and, of course, the popular Christmas songs.
Due to the great response and the joyful commitment of many of the senior citizens present to participate again next year, nothing stands in the way of a new edition in 2024.