The ZDF television program "Fernsehgarten" is departing from its usual Mainz studio for two special autumn broadcasts from the Saarland region. Moderator Andrea Kiewel will host the live open-air shows on October 5 and October 12, 2025, from the historic Völklinger Hütte industrial complex. This annual tour tradition sees the program visiting the German state hosting the official Day of German Unity celebrations.
The Völklinger Hütte provides a unique backdrop for the broadcasts, having been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994 as the first industrial monument to receive this recognition. The former ironworks will serve as the setting for the full Fernsehgarten experience, featuring music, dance, acrobatics, service topics, games, and record attempts that characterize the long-running outdoor program.
The October 5 broadcast will feature musical performances by Dick Brave, Alexander Eder, Lena Marie Engel, and Sophia, along with appearances by Saarland natives including television chef Christian Rach and astronaut Matthias Maurer. The programming will also include filmed segments showcasing Saarland attractions presented by moderator Jess Schöne.
The second broadcast on October 12 will adopt a "Schlagerparty" theme, welcoming performers including Beatrice Egli, Nicole, Eric Philippi, and Vincent Gross. Additional filmed features about Saarbrücken and the surrounding region will be presented by Matze Knop, Reiner Calmund, and Eurovision Song Contest winner Nicole. Both broadcasts will include subtitles and air live at 12:00 PM on ZDF.
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