In the volunteer editorial team, Volunteers for Chemnitz 2025 publish reports on their experiences, assignments and adventures around the European Capital of Culture.
Danny is 44 years young and was born and grew up in Karl-Marx-Stadt. He emigrated "briefly" to the east of Mallorca from 2006-2007. But then he was drawn back home to Chemnitz. He has been working as a volunteer since April 2024, including at the Hat Festival, the Tietz fairground and the Kosmos Festival.
As the rain got heavier around 11 a.m., I looked out of the window with a frown. My plan was actually to cycle into the city. But in the heavy rain, I took the car, drove into the multi-storey car park and headed to the town hall to register. I'm there! A friendly lady at the Hutfestival counter instructed me in all eventualities: Where am I assigned, where do I have to pick something up, when is the catering. With all the information in my luggage and in only a light drizzle, I went to the Hutfestival info point. I got the photo point box with all the props that were needed. Professional photographer Jan was working with me on the planet Mercury, a station in the "Trip around the World". Shortly after 12 o'clock the sky opened up, bright sunshine, perfect timing! Our job as volunteers was to explain to the festival visitors what the photo campaign was all about and also to have the guests fill out the data protection declaration. The ticket numbers were assigned to the photo numbers on a list so that there could be no confusion. Afterwards, the guests were allowed to choose props, e.g. cones, feather boas, ukuleles etc. and then they were photographed with a smile. The mission was over at 4pm.
It was my second time as a volunteer at the Hat Festival. I always have the feeling that the volunteers are very much appreciated by the organisers. I told Dr Ralph Schulze (Managing Director of C3), who made a surprise visit to thank me personally for my commitment. Shortly after 4 p.m., I checked in at the Stadthalle and when I left the car park by car, it started raining cats and dogs right on time. Perfect :)