Photo: Carl de Canedido
Prominent guests and family-friendly program at Baldeneysee
Essen, 05/11/2026. The NRZ hiking day On May 14, 2026, traditionally on Ascension Day, the Essen is returning with a particularly extensive program. In addition to the classic hiking routes, this year's focus will be on prominent guests and a significantly expanded family offering. The event, which has been a firm fixture of NRZ reader life for over five decades, is once again aimed at hikers of all age groups, including children, as well as dog owners.
Joey Kelly hikes along – Schlager stars create a mood
Special attention is being paid to Joey Kelly's participation in the lead-up to the hiking event. The extreme athlete and musician, known as a member of the Kelly Family, will accompany a short section and is scheduled to be available for a meet & greet from 12:30 PM. Wohnbau GmbH is making this prominent program item possible, which experience has shown attracts many visitors. Some will undoubtedly be speculating about a selfie with the charismatic artist. Bernhard Brink and Olaf Henning will also perform on stage in the start/finish area. Both are well-known voices in German Schlager music and will provide the musical entertainment and certainly set the mood with their hits. The concert-like nature of the event certainly goes far beyond what a hiking event usually offers.
Three routes – one destination
Being on the move together, getting moving and talking in community are certainly just three aspects that hikers will experience at the NRZ Hiking Day on Baldeneysee expect in the south of Essen. As usual, three routes are available: 10 kilometers, 18 kilometers, and 25 kilometers. All participants will receive a hiking pass that will be stamped at checkpoints. For NRZ subscribers, it will cost three euros, and for children, two euros. Registration will take place between 7 AM and 11 AM at the starting point in front of the Regattahaus (Freiherr-vom-Stein-Straße 206). All hikers must reach the finish line by 3 PM, as the stamping station and distribution of hiking medals after completing the hike will close then.
Special tours for families and dog lovers
The NRZ Hiking Day remains an event that deliberately focuses on diversity. In addition to the classic routes, there are two guided special tours. Those who wish to participate in the dog hike with their four-legged friend should arrive at the start/finish point at 9:30 AM. The tour will be led by dog trainer Claudia Posca. Sturdy footwear, as well as water and a bowl for the dog, are required. In addition to the leash requirement throughout the hike, a valid liability insurance is also needed. The hike will begin at 10:00 AM. The family hike starts half an hour later at 10:30 AM. For this hike, the route is specially designed for children. Afterwards, a bouncy castle, a mobile playground, glitter tattoos, and the mascot Checky will await the youngest visitors.
Regional and supra-regional stage acts
The stage program is scheduled to begin at 12:00 PM. The hiking day combines sporting activity and sociability with a diverse cultural program that should appeal to both families and music fans. Moderated by Gabor Fábián, in addition to the aforementioned pop stars, local musicians will also perform. Announced acts include the brass band „Die blauen Jungs“ from Herne, Horst Freckmann from the current season of „Deutschland sucht den Superstar“ (DSDS), the children's choir Essen-Steele, and Jürgen Prinz, a former member of „Strandjungs.“.
Conclusion
The NRZ Hiking Day 2026 builds on proven concepts while simultaneously expanding its program: Prominent guests, family-friendly activities, a dog hike with owners, and a broad musical program make the event an excursion that goes far beyond just hiking. Those seeking exercise, connection, and entertainment on Ascension Day (Father's Day) will find something on May 14th that brings all generations together.
All statements without guarantee.
