Maypole Festival

The maypole consists of a fir tree up to 35 metres tall, which is previously "peeled" – that is, stripped of its bark. The green treetop remains intact at the top of the tree. A bound, richly decorated wreath is then attached to the upper end of the tree.

A typical custom during the maypole celebrations is "maypole stealing", which takes place on the night before the first of May. Stealing and guarding the tree is the task of young lads. If it is stolen, it must be ransomed with at least one barrel of beer.

Muscle power required

If the tree has not been stolen, it is erected on the village square on 1 May as part of a large festival. According to old tradition, long poles are hung on the sides of the tree to raise it. Piece by piece, it is now pushed upwards into the correct position with all the manpower available. The lads' work is accompanied by band music, dancing, singing and all kinds of delicacies. With a hearty "heave-ho", the tree is erected. When the phrase "Tree is up" is heard, the barrel of beer is tapped and everyone is invited to the "tree-climbing" competition. Then anyone – young or old, man or woman – can try to climb to the pretzels and sausages at the top of the maypole and bring the treats back down to earth. The best climbers receive prizes.

No festival will be remembered as strongly as the one on 1 May.