‘Jamel rockt den Förster’ Set to Go Ahead on Saturday After Heavy Rain Cancels Friday Shows

After hours of heavy rain turned the grounds of “Jamel rockt den Förster” into a muddy landscape, organizers planned to restart the festival on Saturday afternoon.

The music program was scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. and continue into the night. Artists announced for the day included Deine Cousine and Soffie, although organizers said the lineup could still change. Friday’s concerts had all been canceled because the soaked ground prevented trucks from bringing in the technical equipment.

By Saturday, the situation appeared more promising. “What was a swamp yesterday is dry today,” a spokesperson said. Organizers had delivered and spread wood chips to dry the ground, although rain was forecast again. Political workshops and information stands, part of the festival’s wider program, were also expected to open.

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We are very confident.

The organizers were still working out what would happen to people who held day tickets for Friday and said they would contact them. Day and weekend tickets had been sold.

Held since 2007, “Jamel rockt den Förster” carries an explicitly political message. Organizers Birgit and Horst Lohmeyer use the rock festival to oppose right-wing extremism. The event is staged as a counterpoint to efforts by local neo-Nazis to turn Jamel, near Wismar in northwest Mecklenburg, into a model right-wing community.

Thousands attend each year, helped by appearances from prominent musicians. Past performers have included Herbert Grönemeyer, Campino of Die Toten Hosen, Die Ärzte, Fettes Brot and Deichkind. The organizers traditionally keep the names of performers and bands secret until the festival begins.

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What was a swamp yesterday is dry today.