Sessenheim. Village Festival: Prices Soar, Fairground Workers Struggling

The fifth edition of the "Saessemer Fescht" was once again held in the village center with the support of the municipal team and seven associations to offer visitors a variety of activities. During the weekend, the messti and its attractions took over.

A dozen stalls, rides, and other attractions provided entertainment for young and old alike. However, the prices drew public comment. It's true that at less than three euros, there wasn't much to be found. On the "Tagada," a large thrill ride that turns and tilts, and where passengers sitting without harnesses or seatbelts stand for a while before often rolling to the ground, a ride cost five euros.

Jeanne and Charles had given 50 euros as "Messti-Geld" to their grandson, who spent it all in less than two hours. A few rides, a drink, and a treat, and the bag was empty.

The owner of the "Tagada", Stéphane Zigs, is aware of the problem, but says he is forced to adjust prices because costs have skyrocketed. Not to mention electricity, which has doubled, fuel – "let's not even talk about it" – maintenance, inspections, standards that change very frequently, and the cost of his attraction – 550,000 euros – which must be amortized.

He also points out that parking fees vary from one to two times the amount depending on the municipality, while some offer free parking. For a parking space paid at 200 euros, 40 customers are needed to compensate, but this revenue is gross and charges are not deducted. And whether there are five or 25 passengers, the energy consumed is the same. His period of activity is also limited to the summer season, because in winter, there are no funfairs, and yet he has to support his family and revise his structure. He is rather pessimistic about the future reserved for the next generation.

Despite the circumstances, the "Saessemer Fescht" was well attended, as the offerings were varied. Alsatian and other specialties delighted the taste buds of visitors, who were able to listen to music while playing ping-pong or Dutch billiards. On Sunday, the firefighters took the opportunity to once again celebrate the ^130th anniversary of the creation of the local fire brigade.