“The Gibber Kerb thrives on the dedication of many volunteers. The fact that activities for older adults have been an integral part of the festival for 30 years is a wonderful example of how tradition and social responsibility can go hand in hand. “My thanks go to all the volunteers of the Gibber Kerb Society who have made this collaboration possible over many years,” said Dr. Patricia Becher. 

The activities for seniors at the Gibber Kerb are part of the 55+ leisure and cultural program offered by the Department of Senior Services. The program is aimed at Wiesbaden residents aged 55 and older and offers a wide range of opportunities for culture, leisure, and group activities—from excursions and workshops to social gatherings. These activities help maintain social connections and combat loneliness in old age. It is important to the Department of Senior Services to create programs that are open to as many older adults as possible and allow participation even for those with limited financial means. 

“Many people have personal memories associated with the Gibber Kerb. It’s important to us that such places and experiences remain accessible even in old age. With our recreational and cultural program, we create opportunities to get out and about together, experience culture, and make new connections—regardless of one’s financial situation,” said Dr. Volker Cihlar, head of the Senior Services Department. 

This year, too, seniors were able to participate in the “Frühschoppen” through the recreational and cultural program. For a small fee, they received a serving of beef on a skewer and a drink. The morning was rounded out with music, entertainment, and other program highlights. The “Frühschoppen” is an integral part of the Gibber Kerb, which will take place for the 117th time in 2026. 

The collaboration between the Senior Services Department and the Gibber Kerb Society began in 1996 with the Senior Citizens’ Festival. The history of this event goes back even further: as early as 1973, the “Seniors in the Garden” event was launched in Freudenberg Castle Park. For many years, the Seniors’ Festival was held in the Gibber Kerb Society’s large festival tent. Since 2023, the event has been integrated into the traditional morning get-together. With a donation of 500 euros, the Department of Social Affairs recognizes the volunteer commitment of the Gibber Kerb Society. Every year, numerous volunteers make the Gibber Kerb possible and help ensure that the event remains an important gathering place for people from Wiesbaden. 

The brochure “Leisure & Culture for Ages 55+” is available starting in early January at City Hall, the local administrative offices, the Office of Social Work, senior centers, “Treffpunkte aktiv,” and the Senior Citizens’ Advisory Council. The program and further information are also available online at www.wiesbaden.de/freizeit-kultur (opens in a new tab).