Pullman City celebrates grand reopening after major fire!

Pullman City celebrates grand reopening after major fire!

Pullman City Theme Park celebrated its official reopening on Saturday, May 23, 2025, 16 months after a devastating fire that destroyed nearly a third of Main Street. The ceremony took place in Eging am See, Passau district, and was accompanied by Prime Minister Markus Söder (CSU). In his speech, he highlighted the importance of the western town as one of the major leisure attractions in the Bavarian Forest, which has attracted over 400,000 visitors every year since it opened in 1997.

Although the major fire on January 21, 2024 caused significant property damage amounting to tens of millions of dollars, fortunately the 180 hotel guests who were evacuated in a controlled manner during the incident were uninjured. The cause of the fire, which was due to a technical defect in an electrical device, left the suspicion of arson unaffected as this was ruled out. In the midst of the destruction, both managing director Claus Six and marketing manager Daniela Riedl were optimistic and emphasized looking forward.

Reconstruction and investment

The reconstruction of Pullman City was made easier by an agreement with the insurance company over the fire damage. A total of 25 million euros was invested in the restoration, including planned expansions. The rebuilt buildings include restaurants, the sheriff's building, the town office and the Western Store. In addition, new buildings, a new parking lot and an administration building are being built. Particular emphasis was placed on fire protection measures in order to comply with the new standards.

The Music Dance Hall, a central venue for music and line dancing events, will also be rebuilt. While the fire not only caused structural damage, but also jeopardized planning for future events such as the US Car Meeting and the Karl May Weekend, everything is now being done to ensure that these events can take place. The entire Main Street should be restored by autumn 2023, so that operations can be fully resumed by the end of March or beginning of April 2025.

Community and solidarity

Despite the extensive damage, Pullman City saw remarkable solidarity within the community and among employees. Managing director Claus Six expressed his sadness over the destruction, but had a clear focus on rebuilding and redesigning the leisure attraction. The horse stables and riding arena remained undamaged and the animals are doing well, which is also a positive sign in the midst of the difficult situation.

The plans for a seven-hectare site with a zoo, climbing park, playgrounds, a wellness area and employee housing are not affected by the fire and are continuing to be pursued, giving hope for a diverse future for Pullman City.

For more information about Pullman City's reopening and current status, visit BR.de and EAP Magazine.