May Day-Maifest

Maifest!

What is Maifest?  It is a celebration in German towns and villages that welcomes spring.  It denotes that the long gray winter is over and welcomes sunlight, warmer weather and outdoor activities. 

Maifest (Mayday) May 1st, officially welcomes Spring. It’s roots are in the Pagan celebration of Walpurgisnacht (April 30 and a tradition in itself, this is when according to tradition and to help usher in the new season, the witches and warlocks would fly in from all over Germany (yes on brooms and goats, not Lufthansa) and come together on the Broken, highest peak of the Harz Mountains.  Here they would celebrate with bonfires and dancing.

The community in German cities and villages decorate a Maibaum (which means May tree, but is actually the May Pole).   This tradition began around the 10th century.  At that time craftsman would also carve shields depicting the towns various guilds or trade groups.  They decorate with ribbons, flowers and greens.  A wreath is added to the top with ribbons attached.

In the evening it is common to have bonfires to ‘chase away the darkness’.  There are dances to celebrate.  It really is a very festive occasion. 

Germans certainly know how to celebrate and Maifest is no exception. There is often plenty of food and special drinks, such as Maibock (a strong Spring beer) and a Maibowle (a wine punch similar to Sangria, but instead of citrus, with Waldmeister, or sweet woodsy stuff). 

So where is our Maibaum in Baltimore? Look no further, Zion Church’s German Language School celebrates every year.  Here in the garden at 400 E. Lexington Street, the Maibaum is raised.   There will be a Maifest celebration at Zion Church of the City of Baltimore on the first Saturday of May.