- Global campers congregate in Harz, with the shared objective being: "Tranquility is the aim"
At night, they gather around a bonfire to eat, dance, and socialize, while during the day they swim in lakes, cook, or engage in various activities: Around 1,500 individuals, part of what's referred to as the Rainbow Family, are currently inhabiting the Harz region. Over a week ago, they established an unauthorized campsite in a forest area. What drives these people and who are they?
"I just want to connect with and appreciate nature," says participant Jo (38) - long hair, wild beard - who cycled here from Frankfurt. He had just taken a naked dip in the lake's crystal-clear water, avoiding using shampoo to minimize water pollution.
"Since we've been here, the forest has come to life. Everything is blooming three times as vigorously with life at the forefront," he explains, describing his experience at the camp. He may move on to another Rainbow event, he adds. Some participants have done this for years.
Global Community
"Rainbow Gatherings occur worldwide - smaller national or larger international ones," explains participant Samuel. The dates are shared among each other without official announcements.
A therapist and business consultant, Samuel recently returned to the campsite. New campers arrive regularly, while others leave. Many don't stay the entire time. "I was only here for two days," he says. "I was dressed in a suit and tie - unthinkable today."
On the central campsite, he encounters old acquaintances from other Rainbow gatherings, greeting them with a long hug. The atmosphere is peaceful, with no pressure or haste. Campers dance together or sunbathe, some naked, others not. "Nudity is common here, but not the focus, and has nothing to do with sexuality. Here, everyone can be who they want to be," Samuel explains. People sleep in tents or hammocks.
Origins in the USA
Rainbow Gatherings originated in the USA from the Woodstock and 68er movements, with the culture of Native Americans also serving as inspiration, Samuel explains. The first global event took place in the USA in 1972. Among the basic rules are no electronic music and minimal use of cell phones. Alcohol and drugs play a minor role. "Most people here want to be clear and escape their daily lives."
Everyone contributes as they can, Samuel says. There are doctors and nurses. A central field kitchen prepares meals. There's no duty roster. Voluntary donations are collected for food brought in by cars. One participant checks the water quality using a mobile test lab, which is collected from a source in large tanks.
Legal Issues
At the start of the week, a raid involving hundreds of police officers resulted in the confiscation of hoses from the fresh water system, cars being towed away, and fires being extinguished. The counties of Goslar and Göttingen, where the campers have inhabited a 200-hectare area of a landscape protection area, view the Rainbow Family as a nuisance. They are concerned about forest fires and have imposed an access ban, making the campsite illegal.
However, a raid is not planned, among other reasons due to cost, said Göttingen county councilor Marlies Dornieden (CDU) on Tuesday. The fire department regularly flies over the area with drones and announces the access ban via loudspeakers.
"It's like a small escape for me," says Yow from Israel, currently lighting a fire in a central kitchen's oven. He fought for four months in the Gaza war. "We all just want peace here - that's the ultimate goal."
At these events, a different way of life is demonstrated, says Carlos from Italy. He first attended a Rainbow Gathering in 2000. "We don't need so many rules in daily life if we respect each other and nature."
Around 1,500 people from 63 countries plan to stay until roughly September 3rd, according to participants. Afterwards, they aim to clean up and leave the area near the towns of Bad Grund and Clausthal-Zellerfeld.
Life Ideology
However, new people keep arriving. Like Theresa, who walks to the camp with her nine-year-old daughter after sunset. "There's no place where my daughter feels more at home," she shares. Being a "Rainbow" is a life philosophy for her.
Upon reaching the central square, she's warmly welcomed by her "brothers and sisters," as participants call themselves. Newcomers often hear a "Welcome home." Hundreds of participants sit in a large circle around a fire. The police allow the fire that evening, "as long as it doesn't grow bigger."
Even a hiker isn't bothered by the illegal campers. "They produce less litter than day tourists from Hannover or Braunschweig and clean up," says Thorsten from Goslar. "These people here don't bother me - live and let live."
Participant Jo mentions that he joins Rainbow Gatherings as a way to connect with nature and appreciates the vivid blooming of the forest during his stay. (contains 'Other')
Samuel highlights that Rainbow Gatherings take place worldwide, reflecting a global community that values peace, respect, and minimal interference with nature. (contains 'Other')
