It was that time of the year again: July, the off season. Following last years, magnificent Corkfhest, it was time for this special group of friends to stage this lovely Celtic festival at its more natural home, Dortmund, North-Rhine, Westphalia! 🇩🇪
Before the madness began, we had 4 members represented us out in a village, some 70km to the North-East of Dortmund: Sunninghausen. A rural community of a little over 1,000 habitants and home to the Sunninghausen CSC! A group of friends who have paid several visits to Ireland and to the Cork No.1 CSC over the last few years so it was only fair that we would take an overnight trip out to see the lads on the eve of the Sommerfest proper.
Upon arrival at the little village in the middle of nowhere, outside our party’s accommodation comes the arrival of an 1970s flatbed truck with all our good friends sitting inside, welcoming us in their Celtic jersies all ready for the day. The truck was all decked out with German, Irish flags and more importantly, Beer! The hosts took us for a spin around the countryside, showing us their lovely home, drinking bottles and singing songs in the basking sunshine, where would you get it?!
After some lovely grub we were introduced to their local football team – Sus Blau-Weiss Suenninghausen who ironically enough had a pre season game to play the same evening. The culture around local football in Germany is a lot different to Ireland, drinking as a spectator is part of their culture. We watched some football and afterwards drank at their clubhouse, chatting away and catching up. Thanks to Andre, Jannik, Marcus and all the lads for making us feel very welcome.
Friday came around and the Sunninghausen CSC and Cork No 1 CSC got packed and journeyed to Dortmund together, all smartly dressed wearing our Away Days gear. We all assembled at Schmackes Bar and Restaurant for the Opening Dinner, owned by former BVB player – Kevin GroBkreutz.
After some exquisite grub, a 10 minute walk took us to our next destination where we’d spend the rest of the opening night. The Zum Zöllner – home of the mighty Tremonia Bhoys CSC! It was great to see some of the faces that we had visiting us in Cork the 12 months previous along with meeting new faces. A big shout out to Onk Muller and Hans Frei who done a fine job, taking time out to look after the merch. We hope it didn’t take up too much of their drinking time.
Morning wasn’t long coming round and it was time to face more madness. An hours drive by bus took us all to Hartkorsee. Which is a beautiful expansive lake where we all went on a relaxing boat cruise in more glorious weather. Some stunning photographs were taken on this.
A hydration break followed before we destined to the Green Night, where the traditional main event is held. Some tasty BBQ food was enjoyed and we’re all amazed at Stefans young lad – Ian, who showed off his very impressive skills at a very young age. That youngfella is going places, nutmegging as many grown men as he saw fit, much to everyones amusement! 😅🙈
The Tremonia Bhoys CSC pulled off all the stops on this years Sommerfest with the prizes for the charity raffle. Brilliant prizes were on show, from BVB match tickets, signed Jersies, glassware and much more BVB and Celtic memorabilia. Green Saturday carried on long into the night, the place was drank dry! 🍻
If your head wasn’t too sore, a tour of the iconic Signal Iduna Park was on the cards for anyone that fancied it on the Sunday. An opportunity, we ourselves couldn’t pass up. What a sight it was. Could it be that BVB and Celtic happen to be in the same group in this seasons UCL? Its something we are all praying for!
To finish out a memorable weekend, we concluded with one last dinner at Hovels Brewery in Dortmund City Centre where we all made our emotional goodbyes. We hope everyone made a safe journey home, whether it be in Germany, Switzerland, Scotland, England, Ireland North and South. We had a wondeful experience with the best company. Thanks to the Tremonia Bhoys CSC and especially to Frank, Birgit, Kirsten, Stefan, Katja and the rest of the gang.
The countdown to Sommerfest ’24 has already started, we can’t wait. ⏰
Take a look at some of our highlights over in our gallery.