Bremen's 50-year commemoration of the bronze sculpture, "Shepherd with Pigs," includes a merchant's feast and an art exposition.
Soest Street will come alive with art, food, and community spirit as it hosts the 50th Anniversary Festival of the beloved bronze sculpture, "Herdsman with Pigs." The festivities kick off on September 13th.
Festival Highlights
Artworks & Exhibitions
The main event will be a display of the history of the "Herdsman with Pigs" sculpture, featuring original sketches and design plans, a photographic timeline of the sculpture over 50 years, and stories from locals about the sculpture’s significance.
Local artists will also showcase their interpretations of the "Herdsman with Pigs" theme, with interactive bronze sculpture workshops for visitors to try their hand at small bronze casting. A children’s art corner will offer pig-themed drawing and clay modeling activities.
A photography competition, "The Herdsman Through the Years," invites participants to submit their best photos of the sculpture and Soest Street.
Culinary Events
The festival will also feature a Farm-to-Table Market, where local farmers and vendors offer fresh produce and artisanal foods inspired by the rural theme of the sculpture.
Pig-inspired delicacies will be on offer, with local chefs crafting traditional recipes and creative takes on pork dishes. Cooking demonstrations and sampling sessions will provide an opportunity for visitors to taste these culinary delights.
A beverage bar will serve craft beers, ciders, and local wines, as well as non-alcoholic drinks themed to the festival, such as pig-shaped ice cubes and fruity mocktails.
Festival Schedule (Example)
The festival will be a two-day event, with activities scheduled throughout both days. Here's a sample schedule:
| Time | Event | Location | |---------------|---------------------------------------------------|-----------------------| | 10:00 - 11:30 | Opening Ceremony & Welcome Speech | Near Sculpture Plaza | | 11:00 - 15:00 | Art Workshops & Kids’ Activities | Community Hall | | 12:00 - 14:00 | Cooking Demonstration: Pork Dishes | Culinary Stage | | 14:00 - 16:00 | Photography Exhibition & Awards | Exhibition Tent | | 16:00 - 17:00 | Guided Sculpture Tour & History Talk | Soest Street | | 17:00 - 19:00 | Live Music & Dance | Main Festival Area | | 19:00 - 21:00 | Dinner Market & Tasting | Food Market | | 21:00 - 22:00 | Closing Remarks & Fireworks Display | Sculpture Plaza |
The festival begins with the reopening of the historic carillon at the level of the sculpture on September 13th at 12 pm. The art exhibition at Soest Street 17 opens on September 13th at 5 pm during the festival. The original plaster models of the Soest pigs will be displayed at the art exhibition.
On Saturday, September 14th, the celebration and indulgence at the merchants' table continue at 12 pm. The merchants' table, in collaboration with design hotel Überfluss and Grill, offers culinary delights during the festival. The food options include classic suckling pig, ragout with herdsman cheese, vegan curry, and sweet treats from confectionery Knigge.
Join us in Soest Street for a celebration of art, food, and community spirit as we honour the 50th anniversary of the iconic "Herdsman with Pigs" sculpture.
A children's art corner at the Festival will offer pig-themed drawing and clay modeling activities, fostering a family-friendly lifestyle for community members. Local artists will present their interpretations of the "Herdsman with Pigs" theme, offering an engaging home-and-garden setting where visitors can appreciate art and creativity.
