Ruth Liebscher is the 2026 Dresden Stollen Girl

Ruth Liebscher is this year’s Dresden Stollen Girl and will represent the traditional craft of the Dresden Christmas stollen in 2026. “When the decision was made, my first thought was, ‘Really, me?’ I’m really looking forward to the coming weeks, meeting people, and the special Advent season in Dresden,” said the 18-year-old at the presentation in Dresden. 

The 32nd Stollen Girl comes from a true baking family, according to the Dresden Stollen Protection Association. Every fall, the association selects a Dresden Stollen Girl—a tradition that has become a hallmark of the state capital. 

Ruth Liebscher herself is currently completing an apprenticeship as a bakery and pastry sales specialist. She said she’s always enjoyed selling. Her parents run the Liebscher Bakery in Weinböhla, which has several branches in Saxony. 

Announcement with Dance and Acrobatics

When the 18-year-old isn’t at her training workplace, she dances in a dance group from Coswig—with a focus on show dance. The group also played a special role in Liebscher’s announcement: Two of her fellow dancers opened the event. Lukas Claus, a master craftsman at Liebscher’s training company and a former sports acrobat, also showcased his skills during the announcement of the Stollen Girl.

Protection Association: “Ideal Ambassador”

“The fact that Ruth has the baking trade in her blood thanks to her family background, while also bringing discipline and stage presence as an athlete, makes her an ideal ambassador,” said Andreas Wippler, chairman of the board of the Dresden Stollen Protection Association. Following the presentation, more than 50 official engagements on behalf of the traditional pastry—whose origins date back to the 14th century—now await Ruth Liebscher, including international events. Shortly after taking office, the Stollen Girl will set off for an event in Warsaw, as revealed by the association’s executive director, Karoline Marschallek.

Selection Based on Strict Criteria

Candidates for the Dresden Stollen Girl must have good grades in vocational school, comprehensive expertise, and a deep passion for Dresden’s number-one Christmas pastry. Ruth, too, had to demonstrate her knowledge of the protected designation of origin and the strict quality standards for the Dresden Christstollen, Marschallek explained.

The Stollen Girl also serves as the patroness of the Dresden Stollen Festival, which will take place this year on December 5 at the Striezelmarkt. Ruth Liebscher’s dance group will also perform there this year.