Although preparations for the 2023 edition started late, it quickly became clear: Despite COVID-19, everyone is back! The festival was once again a great success with both old and new choirs, orchestras, bands, theater, and dance groups. The final applause after the “Tapetenwechsel” was not only for the artists on stage but also for Klaus Baumeister, Ortwin Lämke, and Walter Lindenbaum, who had shaped the festival since its early days and are now stepping down from “active service.” However, as mentors, they will continue to critically and creatively guide the festival.