From 19 to 21 June 2025, our students once again took part in the Freak Valley Festival at the AWO site in 57250 Netphen near Siegen as part of the seminar "Planning, shooting and editing moving images at the Freak Valley Festival 2025". A theoretical and practical weekend took place in Paderborn in the run-up to the festival, during which both editorial and technical basics relating to video shooting and editing were taught. During the festival, the students accompanied the open-air concerts and the colourful hustle and bustle on the festival grounds with their cameras - including backstage insights and authentic festival impressions. On the final weekend in Paderborn, the footage was viewed and edited together and a highlight clip was produced.
The Freak Valley Festival, which took place for the twelfth time in 2025, is known far beyond the borders of the Siegerland region and is considered one of the most important meeting places for the stoner, psychedelic and punk rock scene in Germany. What makes the festival so special is its informal character and special atmosphere: despite around 3,000 visitors every year, it remains manageable and personal, and the closeness between the audience, artists and crew is unique. Exciting newcomers regularly take to the stage alongside international stars of the scene. The lovingly designed grounds, many non-profit initiatives and a committed community ensure that the Freak Valley Festival is an insider tip and highlight of alternative festival culture.
Text: Paul Schuldig
