Unique Polling Stations in North Rhine-Westphalia for the German Federal Election
Introduction
Germany is gearing up for the Bundestag elections on Sunday, and while many have opted for postal voting or have already cast their ballots at the local polling offices, it is expected that the majority of voters will return to in-person voting this year. However, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), some voters will experience their democratic duty in rather unconventional settings.
Living Room, Bettenladen, Eishalle: A Smorgasbord of Polling Places
NRW boasts a diverse array of polling stations, ranging from the traditional schools and community centers to the downright bizarre. One such example is the Fabrizius family home in Leverkusen, which has been transformed into a fully functional polling station – complete with ballot box, voting booth, and electoral assistants – every election day since 2009. In addition to the unique ambiance, the family members themselves volunteer as election helpers.
Another peculiar polling place is the "Zur Delle" inn in Leverkusen-Pattscheid. This establishment, known for its convivial beer garden during warmer months, will play host to the democratic process on Sunday.
Dortmund offers an equally eclectic mix of polling locations. Voters can cast their ballots amidst the lush greenery of the Am Send allotment garden, the cozy confines of the Bormann bedding store, the grandeur of Schloss Eving, or the refreshing waters of the Froschloch natural swimming pool.
Cologne: From Garden Centers to Zircus Tents
Cologne also boasts its share of quirky polling stations. The Hahnwald garden center will be transformed into a voting hub, while the Lino Club will offer the unique experience of casting votes amidst the colorful tents of a circus. The city’s decision to utilize the circus was motivated by its accessibility features.
The Lentpark ice rink in Cologne’s Agnesviertel is another noteworthy polling place, having been used in previous elections. This time, however, voters will be casting their ballots in the warmth of the rink’s sauna area.
NRW: A State of Electoral Diversity
North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany’s most populous state, will see 12.6 million citizens eligible to vote in Sunday’s election. The outcome will determine the composition of the 21st German Bundestag, which will subsequently elect a new chancellor.
Polling stations across NRW will open at 8:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM. By that time, the first election forecasts are expected to be released. Approximately 110,000 electoral helpers will be on hand to ensure a smooth voting process at the state’s 16,000 polling stations.
Unique Venues, Unwavering Democratic Spirit
The diversity of polling stations in North Rhine-Westphalia not only lends a touch of whimsy to the electoral process but also highlights the unwavering spirit of democracy in Germany. Whether casting their ballots in a living room, a betting store, or an ice rink sauna, voters will exercise their fundamental right to shape the future of their country.
