Open Day at the Bochum-Ölbachtal Wastewater Treatment Plant

How is wastewater turned back into clean water? What actually happens at a sewage treatment works before the treated water is returned to the water cycle? And what technology and vehicles are used for this? Answers to these and many other questions will be provided at the Ruhrverband’s open day at the Bochum-Ölbachtal sewage treatment works on Saturday, 19 September 2026, from 10 am to 4 pm.

Under the slogan ‘Take a look behind the scenes at a sewage treatment works’, the Ruhrverband is opening the gates of its facility at Vor den Teichen 1 in Bochum. Visitors can take guided tours to gain a fascinating insight into the various stages of wastewater treatment and learn how polluted wastewater is transformed back into clean water. The Ruhrverband’s service vehicles and technical equipment can also be explored up close.

The open day is specifically aimed at the whole family. Whilst adults can learn more about the Ruhrverband’s work and wastewater treatment on guided tours and at the information van, there is plenty for children to discover and try out. With various games, the creative station offering painting and craft activities, and the bouncy castle, there’s certainly no chance of getting bored.

A special highlight for the youngsters is the ‘Junior Sewage Treatment Master’ activity. After taking part in a tour of the sewage treatment works, young visitors can put their newly acquired knowledge to the test in a quiz. Anyone who answers the questions correctly will then receive a certificate as a Junior Sewage Treatment Master.

Refreshments are also available. The barbecue stand offers savoury snacks, the drinks stand serves refreshments, and the waffle stand provides sweet treats. This makes a visit to the sewage treatment works a relaxing family day out. Free parking is also available at the sewage treatment works.

The Ruhrverband looks forward to welcoming numerous guests to the Bochum-Ölbachtal sewage treatment works on 19 September. Admission is free.

Please note: The open day was originally announced for 6 September but had to be postponed to 19 September for operational reasons.