The Schaffermahlzeit is the oldest continuously held friendship meal in the world. Since 1545, it has brought together captains and merchants – as a symbol of mutual respect, shared responsibility, and the deep bond between seafaring and commerce.
It is hosted annually by the HAUS SEEFAHRT foundation, whose charitable work is significantly supported by the proceeds and donations from the Schaffermahlzeit. The event is not only a social occasion of national significance, but also a living expression of Bremen’s identity and the foundation’s commitment.
The Schaffermahlzeit originated in the 16th century as a farewell meal for ship captains before they set sail in the spring. What began as a seafaring tradition among comrades gradually evolved over the centuries into a firmly established institution within Bremen’s economic and social life.
Since 1952, the Schaffermahlzeit has taken place every second friday in February in the Upper Hall of Bremen’s Town Hall. While merchants and captains once used the occasion to discuss the foundation’s affairs, today the focus lies on shared experience, supporting social initiatives, and strengthening the maritime community.
The Schaffermahlzeit follows a festive and dignified protocol that has been passed down for generations.
Before the Schaffermahlzeit begins, the Chamber of Industry and Commerce invites its commercial and maritime members and their guests to a reception at the Schütting, the home of Bremen’s merchants. They then proceed in a ceremonial procession across the market square to Bremen City Hall.
There, in the impressive Upper Hall, guests are served a traditional multi-course meal that has changed little over the decades – featuring dishes like chicken soup, stockfish, kale, and roast veal. The meal is accompanied by the so-called “seafaring beer,” served in silver tankards.
Twelve selected speeches – ranging from personal reflections to political perspectives – form the core of the event. This is where Hanseatic merchant culture meets the maritime world – with humor, gravity, and a clear sense of purpose. The evening concludes with the communal smoking of white clay pipes – a ritual still upheld with a wink and a smile, bringing the gathering to a close in an atmosphere of dignified camaraderie.
Each year, three newly elected business members of the HAUS SEEFAHRT foundation host the Schaffermahlzeit.
These so-called Schaffers invite around 100 guests from all over the world – prominent figures from politics, business, science, culture, and public life. Each guest may attend only once in their lifetime, making the invitation a truly special honor.
The Schaffers not only bear the organizational responsibility but also finance the event themselves – a clear statement of civic commitment and community spirit.
The Schaffermahlzeit is closely tied to the charitable mission of the HAUS SEEFAHRT foundation.
Donations collected during the meal make a significant contribution to the foundation’s social work. These funds help provide affordable housing, support for those in need, and scholarships for students.
The Schaffermahlzeit thus represents not only Hanseatic tradition and prestige, but also concrete assistance and a strong sense of social responsibility.
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