On Sunday, thousands of families were not deterred by the changeable Eifel weather from visiting the Nürburgring for the fourth Family Day. The event remained as popular as ever: as in previous years, the Ring was transformed into a lively meeting place for families. The covered ring°boulevard was bustling with activity all day long, whilst the numerous other attractions around the race track were also in high demand. Whether it was stage shows, hands-on motorsport, bowling, eSports or family activities: the Nürburgring demonstrated once again that it is far more than just a race track and remains a popular day-out destination for the whole family, even outside major motorsport events.
A mix of rain and sunshine, coupled with autumnal temperatures and wind – the typical Eifel weather did nothing to dampen the good atmosphere at this year’s Nürburgring Family Day. Among the numerous hands-on stations and in front of the main event stage, the diverse activities and shows created a lively atmosphere in and around the ring°boulevard. Everywhere, people were playing, marvelling, trying things out and laughing together. The weather-proof activities in particular proved to be a major advantage on this Sunday. Whilst the ring°boulevard, with its numerous hands-on stands and stage programme, formed the centrepiece of the Family Day, the other indoor attractions were also in high demand. The new ring°bowling centre was fully booked throughout the day, as was the ring°kart track – powered by WiSOLAR. The Nürburgring eSports Bar and the ring°cinema also offered families a variety of entertainment, regardless of the weather. The restaurants LUCIA – POLLO ITALIANO and Bitburger Gasthaus in the ring°carré invited visitors to linger and enjoy a bite to eat or a drink in between activities.
For Nürburgring Managing Director Christian Stephani, the huge turnout underlines the destination’s special appeal: “It really is something special how many people our Family Day attracts every year – and that’s without any major motorsport event taking place. The huge turnout shows just how attractive the Nürburgring is thanks to our diverse range of activities for families. Together with our strong partners, we create a special experience here every year. It’s simply brilliant to see how our visitors transform the ring°boulevard into a huge children’s party.”
“It’s always something very special because the atmosphere is simply brilliant”
On the ring°boulevard, the Family Day – supported by RPR1 and the Rhein-Zeitung – once again lived up to its name. On the event stage presented by VR Bank RheinAhrEifel, football artist Jannik Freestyle, children’s singer-songwriter Uwe Reetz and magicians Roy and Dominik thrilled the crowds. RPR1 provided commentary on the varied stage programme with presenter Ralf Schwoll. The numerous mascots surrounding the Nürburgring-Fuchs Legend were also popular photo opportunities.
Away from the stage, young visitors were able, amongst other things, to take a seat in a real Formula 4 racing car, carry out experiments at the Junior Uni Daun, or put their skills to the test at the numerous games and sports stations. The fire brigade, police, ambulance service and Lenz breakdown service showcased their emergency vehicles, whilst the motorbike trial demonstrations by the AAC Bad Neuenahr provided extra excitement. Nadine Königs from the Rhein-Zeitung was also full of praise: “Family Day is always something very special because the atmosphere is simply brilliant. There are so many different opportunities here for families to enjoy experiences together and take part in a wide variety of activities”.
Family fun whatever the weather
The fact that visitors weren’t put off by rain or wind was also evident from the outdoor activities on offer. In car park A10 next to the ring°carré, motorsport fans of all ages were able to get behind the wheel themselves at the MSC Adenau kart slalom. The activity proved just as popular in sunshine as it did in the rain. The BMW M Power Grandstand, which was open free of charge, also attracted visitors, who were able to enjoy views of the Grand Prix circuit and the Classic Car Festival taking place at the same time. The mix of covered experience zones and additional outdoor activities made the Family Day a varied day out, even in changeable weather. At the same time, it highlighted just how diverse the options at the Nürburgring are – from real-life motorsport and virtual racing to bowling, cinema and dining.
Strong partners and a special thank you
RPR1 presenter Ralf Schwoll highlighted not only the special atmosphere but also the collaboration: “It’s impressive just how extensive the Nürburgring’s network is and how many different partners are involved here. Family Day is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the Nürburgring in all its diversity and, at the same time, to thank people for a great season.” Marina Koch-Fiedelak from Junior Uni Daun confirmed that Family Day is also a special event for the participating exhibitors: “This is the second time we’ve taken part in Family Day at the Nürburgring. For us, it’s a great opportunity to reach a wide audience and connect with lots of families and children who are interested in what Junior Uni has to offer.”
Following an eventful Sunday with thousands of visitors and numerous delighted families, one thing is already certain: the Nürburgring Family Day is set to take place again next year.