Hundreds of Bikers Brave the Winter for Annual Meeting at Augustusburg Castle
In the midst of winter cold, the freezing temperatures did not deter motorcycle enthusiasts from gathering at the scenic Augustusburg Castle in Saxony. Motorcyclists from Germany and beyond flocked to the castle on Saturday, defying the weather conditions to celebrate the start of the year with fervor.
The traditional winter meeting at Augustusburg Castle has been a recurring event since 1971 and continues to attract a dedicated crowd. This year marked the 51st edition of the event, where a total of 850 motorcycles from Germany, Poland, Finland, and Sweden gathered, each with one or two riders. The picturesque castle grounds were transformed into a vast rider’s campsite, complete with tents, a stage, and warming stations, accommodating not only the bikers but also around 3,000 curious onlookers who joined in the festivities.
“Zero degrees Celsius, frost-covered ground, and a thin layer of snow create ideal conditions,” stated Patrizia Meyn, Managing Director of the Schlossbetriebs GmbH, highlighting the enthusiasm of the participants despite the wintry setting.
Despite the success of the gathering, Meyn mentioned that the turnout was slightly lower than in previous years, partly due to the increased prices for the camping area. She explained, “We had to raise them because the costs of organizing such a festival have also risen.”
An Unforgettable Location for Bikers
Augustusburg Castle, a prominent Renaissance landmark located on the northern edge of the Ore Mountains, served as the hunting lodge for Saxon electors in the past. Today, it houses one of Europe’s largest motorcycle collections, chronicling the history of motorcycling from 1885. The exhibition prominently features the development of well-known Saxon motorcycle companies, including DKW, Auto Union, and MZ.
The annual winter bikers’ meeting, a beloved tradition since 1971, encompasses various activities such as a biker’s service held in the chapel of the castle and a motorcycle parts market. Additionally, participants engage in passionate discussions about motorcycles, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared excitement within the biking community.
Despite the chilly weather, the meeting at Augustusburg Castle brought together motorcycle enthusiasts from different parts of Germany and beyond, reinforcing the enduring spirit and passion for biking even in the depths of winter.
