Last Sunday, September 22nd, the Jahnplatz of SV 1860 Minden eV was transformed into a colorful and lively center of cultural diversity. In bright late summer weather, numerous visitors flocked to the “International Sports and Culture Festival”, which took place as part of the Intercultural Weeks. This special week of action, which is celebrated nationwide, focuses on cultural diversity – and the city of Minden is taking part for the fourth time.

Another highlight of the day was the ceremonial inauguration of the newly renovated multifunctional area of ​​SV 1860 Minden eV, where a wide variety of sports can be practiced in the future.

The festival was organized by SV 1860 Minden eV in cooperation with the integration office and the integration council of the city of Minden. Significant support came from the migrant associations active in Minden, which made the festival a colorful and melodious event.

The aim of the festival was to make the diversity of the city’s society visible. Because in Minden, people from over 120 nations live peacefully together – a fact that was particularly celebrated on this day.

The event was opened by District Administrator Ali Doğan, Mayor Michael Jäcke and Integration Officer Selvi Arslan, who emphasized in her speech: “Integration requires the recognition of different cultures. It’s particularly great that sport knows no boundaries and connects people.” Guido Höltke, chairman of the Minden City Sports Association, also addressed the guests with motivating words.

A special highlight was the “Dance of Cultures”, where dancers in traditional costumes from all over the world made the stage shine. Afterwards, all visitors were invited to dance together – a symbol of exchange and coexistence between cultures.

In addition to the dance and music performances, food stands with typical local specialties from the various migrant associations provided culinary delights and rounded off the festival program. SV 1860 Minden eV also took the opportunity to present its diverse range of sports, such as basketball, fencing, judo and gymnastics.

The International Sports and Cultural Festival was a great success and attracted numerous people from all over the city. The successful mix of sport, culture and cuisine impressively showed how colorful and diverse life is in Minden – and how this diversity brings people together.