Base to host Explore the Eifel information, adventure fair

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Daryl Knee
  • 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
The 10th anniversary of the Explore the Eifel information and adventure fair takes place 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 24, 2014, in Club Eifel at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany.

The fair is an alternate-duty location and includes information booths, live demonstrations and shows, and activities geared toward sharing German culture and local sites to the U.S. citizens living in the Eifel community.

The intent is to build relationships, said Bernhard Schaefer, 52nd Fighter Wing community relations advisor and one of the event founders. The fair provides an opportunity for base members to meet local leaders and industry representatives to find out what types of activities are available in the nearby areas.

Base members can visit the booths, view demonstrations and activities inside and outside Club Eifel during the fair to decide if they want to participate. Booth representatives will have sign-up sheets available for tours or activities during the Explore the Eifel adventure weekend, which takes place May 2-4.



"It's an incredible opportunity to build partnership with the local community and have a lot of fun," Schaefer said. "I cannot think of a better way to showcase the Eifel right here at the base."

However, this year's event is a little different, he continued. As 10 years is a major milestone, the event coordinators have scheduled some unique activities. They have tailored the event to engage single Airmen and entire families. Also, the motto for this year is "Friendship Without Borders," which recognizes that Americans can travel about an hour to visit regions like the Eifel and Mosel, and countries like Luxembourg and Belgium.

"Many people don't know where to start when getting to Europe," he said, "or they may be hesitant because of the language. This is a perfect chance to really learn -- there may be history in someone's back yard, and they may never realize it."

While the adventure fair is a full duty day, the official opening ceremony takes place at 9:45 a.m., April 24 in the Club Eifel ballroom. The 52nd Fighter Wing leadership will open the event and cut a celebratory cake for the attendees.

Lia Gregory, 52nd Operations Support Squadron airfield operations administrative assistant and event volunteer for several years, said Explore the Eifel is a fantastic idea to bring the local culture and history to the American neighbors. The fair is a good way to communicate, make friends and get to know one another.

For more information or to volunteer for the event, call DSN 452-7161 or 06565-61-7161.