Moritzburg, near Dresden, once again drew thousands of visitors to its annual ‘Fish and Forest’ festival, centered around the traditional netting of the Moritzburg Castle Pond. The event celebrated local fishing traditions, regional cuisine, and the picturesque cultural landscape surrounding the baroque hunting lodge.
Sunshine and stormy weather
While Saturday offered golden autumn sunshine and bustling crowds, Sunday’s stormy weather forced the early closure of several market stalls and the cancellation of the popular birds of prey show. Despite the rain, around 15,000 people attended over the two days, a number that the organizers were pleased with.
Fresh carp
Visitors could buy freshly caught carp directly from the fishermen or taste it during live cooking demonstrations. The most splendid specimens were auctioned for charity in the festival tent, adding a festive and generous spirit to the event. After a viral outbreak in 2024 affected the ponds, new carp were introduced this year. “The first haul showed that the carp have grown normally,” said Henry Lindner, head of the Moritzburg Fishery. The total harvest will only be clear once all the ponds are netted, but Lindner expects an average yield of around seven tons. “There’s still plenty of fish left in the pond,” he added with a smile.
Moritzburg’s Autumn Highlight
The fish harvests form the centerpiece of the Moritzburg Fish and Forest Festival, one of Saxony’s most beloved autumn traditions. Last year, around 30,000 visitors came to enjoy the mix of nature, culture, and culinary delights — proof that Moritzburg’s charm continues to captivate both locals and guests alike.
source: www.dpa.de
