The Illuminated History of Wahnbek’s Radio Tower Advent Wreath
The Wahnbek radio tower, located near Oldenburg, Germany, stands as a unique intersection of engineering and festive tradition. Its fascinating story begins with an extraordinary project initiated by two Deutsche Telekom employees, Hans-Hermann Hayen and Fritz Haferkamp. Their idea to transform a telecommunications structure into a giant Advent wreath not only captivated the local community but also earned them a spot in the Guinness Book of Records—twice. From 1999 to 2010, this landmark became a symbol of holiday cheer for the region, visible from up to 30 kilometers away and inspiring countless memories.
A Tradition Born from Ingenious Ingenuity
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The inception of the illuminated Advent wreath was a result of creativity mixed with community effort. After a spirited party in 1998, where leftover light bulbs sparked the idea to decorate the Wahnbek radio tower, plans were set into motion. Under the guidance of Hayen, a retired engineer, and Haferkamp, a master electrician, the team designed and installed the wreath. The project was no small feat—requiring extensive materials like steel cables, over a kilometer of wiring, and 500 large light bulbs arranged neatly around the platforms, stretching to a height of 140 meters. The addition of six-meter-high illuminated ‘candles,’ powered by 14,000 mini light bulbs, completed the dazzling design.
The inaugural illumination in 1999 drew over 1,000 spectators, with music, festivities, and a glowing sense of community. Celebrities, including astronaut Thomas Reiter, participated over the years, further boosting the wreath’s popularity. Reiter even carried a photo of the tower into space, cementing its place as a local and international icon. For the Hayen family, particularly Hans-Hermann’s daughter Tanja, the tower remains a cherished piece of home and family legacy.
The Legacy Lives On
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Although the tradition ended in 2010 due to safety concerns after a transformer overheated, the Advent wreath project remains a symbol of togetherness and innovation. The effort to bring the idea to life involved not just Hayen and Haferkamp but also local clubs and volunteers who collaborated every year to install and light the wreath. Newspapers, calendars, and postcards celebrated the ‘Leucht-Turm’ (light tower), keeping its legacy alive.
Today, the Wahnbek radio tower, managed by DFMG Deutsche Funkturm GmbH, continues to be a key landmark in the Ammerland district. For many, including former residents like Tanja Hayen, it represents more than just a piece of infrastructure—it symbolizes the warmth and community spirit of the region. While its Advent lights are no longer a fixture, the memories and impact of this incredible project illuminate the history of the area.
Key Facts About the Wahnbek Radio Tower
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- Year Built: 1974
- Height: 134 meters, increased to 140 meters during the decoration
- Operator: DFMG Deutsche Funkturm GmbH
- Key Features: Two platforms at 75 and 85 meters, former site of the world’s largest Advent wreath
- Installation Details: 800 meters of light strings, 500-meter installation cables, and 440 clamps used annually
Though the annual lighting is a tradition of the past, the Wahnbek tower remains a beacon of innovation and holiday spirit. It has entered the folklore of Oldenburg, capturing imaginations and fostering a connection to home for Ammerland’s residents and visitors alike.
