Getting to know the Eifel when Exploring

Published April 2, 2015
By Iris Reiff
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Explore castles, view local attractions around the Spangdahlem community or enjoy sports like canoeing, hang gliding, fishing and rope climbing.

These are just some of the many ways Spangdahlem Sabers and their families can take advantage of the upcoming Explore the Eifel extravaganza.

In its 11th season, Explore the Eifel will start off with an information fair and adventure party 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., April 29, at Club Eifel.

The goal of the event is for base members, especially newcomers and dorm dwellers to get out and meet our local neighbors, make new friends and experience the rich Eifel culture and traditions available at Spangdahlems doorstep.

Explore the Eifel helps people understand how many things there are to see and do outside the base without having to spend a lot of money.

How would you like to shake hands with the Knights of Manderscheid Castles, get your photo taken with the Mosel Wine Queen, interact with a local Bird of Prey, participate in a sports competition or win a free weekend for you and your family in Luxembourg?

At this year's fair, more than 80 exhibitors from Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium are expected to be present to show off and talk about hundreds of different attractions and cities in the community.

I often hear people say: "What can I do this weekend?"

Well, people will be able to learn what is available in the Eifel and find out when all the great festivals take place, like the local Wittlich Pigfest.

What is also special about Explore the Eifel is that community leaders will invite anyone interested on a personal tour through their communities. This helps newcomers find their way around or decide where they would like to live.

Host Nation Council officials and tourist agents will also be present at the fair offering flyers and brochures, inviting service members and their families on excursions such as wine probes, forest walks, hikes, bike rides, museum visits or to a friendship barbecue with local residents.

Explore the Eifel will offer sporting activities for single Airmen and families with children.

"The list is not complete yet, but I guarantee people will have a lot of fun and there will be new surprises again this year," said Bernhard Schaefer, Community Relations Advisor, one of the main organizers of the event. "Music and entertainment will be scheduled".

Club Eifel has been officially declared as an alternate duty location for fair visitors. While there, people can sign up to activities and excursions.

A survey on Explore the Eifel will reach base members soon where they can make suggestions for events and share their interests.

Airmen find what the Eifel has to offer