Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Fifteen students and three teachers from Hennef, Germany, experienced life in Foley during a recent Sister Cities exchange visit. The group stayed with local host families, attended Foley schools, and explored the Gulf Coast from New Orleans to Mobile. Their visit was featured at a Foley City Council meeting, where Foley Sister Cities Executive Director Linda B. Spangrud and students Lily Ingram and Cole Reid shared details about the exchange. Mayor Ralph Hellmich also welcomed the visitors at a breakfast reception at Foley High School, emphasizing the city’s support for the growing international partnership.

The German group spent 12 days in Foley and the surrounding area, participating in a full schedule of activities with their hosts. During their visit, they spent two days shadowing Foley students at school to see what daily life is like for teens on the Alabama Gulf Coast. Their travels also took them to New Orleans, where they enjoyed beignets at Café du Monde, strolled through Jackson Square, and explored the French Market. Along the way, they experienced both popular tourist spots and local favorites important to Foley residents.

Back in Baldwin County, the visitors explored some of the area’s top attractions. They visited Alligator Alley, held baby alligators, toured historic Fort Morgan, and learned about oyster farming at the Admiral Shellfish Company. The group also stopped at the USS Alabama, viewed the visiting Budweiser Clydesdales, explored downtown Mobile, and attended a gallery viewing of a Mobile night Mardi Gras parade, provided by Hargrove Engineers and Constructors. A hay wagon ride through the bog, a chance to watch ASA Hoyt Easton Pro Am archery practice rounds, and a farewell luncheon at Graham Creek rounded out the busy schedule.

The timing of the exchange allowed the visitors to experience Mardi Gras season along the Gulf Coast. Hennef is about 29 miles outside Cologne, known as the Carnival center of Germany, so Carnival is already a big part of their culture. Still, students and teachers noticed major differences between German Carnival and South Alabama Mardi Gras traditions. For example, Foley area parades toss moon pies, beads, stuffed animals, and toys, while German parades focus on throwing sweets and candy.

The visitors also learned that Gulf Coast Mardi Gras includes formal balls, which contrast with what they see back home. In Germany, Carnival usually features costume parties filled with singing, music, dancing, and stage performances rather than elegant ballrooms. Despite these differences, the shared joy of parades, music, and celebration helped connect the guests with their Foley hosts. Many of the students are expected to stay in touch with their new friends long after the trip.

One of the Hennef teachers, Nicole Bundgen, said the experience left a lasting impression on the group. “This was great. Honestly, I am so thankful for this experience. It is so amazing these people did this for us. I am deeply impressed and I know that all our kids are too,” she said. “None of them have ever had such an experience even though they are used to Carnival. This is something everyone will be talking about for a long time. Thank you sooo much.”

The partnership will continue this summer as Foley students and teachers travel to Germany. In June 2026, Foley participants plan to visit their host families in Hennef, tour the area, and compare daily life to their own community. During her report to city leaders, Spangrud also presented the Foley Sister Cities annual report, “A Year in Review” with “A Glimpse to the Future.” The organization has been active since 2022 and has already launched several fundraisers and projects that boost Foley’s profile internationally.

Looking ahead, Foley Sister Cities and presenting title sponsor Riviera Utilities are preparing for the Oktoberfest Golf Jamboree on October 23, 2026, at GlenLakes Golf Club. Organizers describe it as more than just a golf tournament, calling it a full Oktoberfest-style celebration. The Little German Band from Huntsville will perform in traditional lederhosen and dirndl, playing classic German songs along with popular American tunes. Visitors will be able to take advantage of hotel discounts at Cobblestone Hotel and Suites, with shuttle and rideshare options to and from the course, plus stein-holding contests and polka dancing.

Spangrud also encouraged residents to support the program by participating in an upcoming Spirit Night fundraiser at Jim N Nick's in Foley. The event is scheduled for Monday, March 9, 2026, from 4 to 8 p.m. Anyone who dines in or orders carryout and mentions Foley Sister Cities will help the nonprofit earn a share of that evening’s profits. There is no extra cost to customers, but each meal helps fund future exchanges, student travel, and cultural events.

Leaders say the Foley Sister Cities Commission exists to promote cultural, educational, and commercial relationships through international leadership, friendship, and understanding. The group’s mission is summed up in the phrase “Building Peace Through People,” a goal that comes to life each time students share meals, stories, and celebrations across borders. Residents who want to learn more or get involved can visit www.foleysistercities.com or email foleysistercities@gmail.com for details on programs, trips, and local events.