At this event, lovers jump together over the burning May fire. In some parts of Germany, May jumping is a common custom. The witch fire or “Hexenfeuer”, which is kindled on April 30 and is celebrated in many parts of Germany, aims to expel evil spirits. Many people visit village or city fairs that take place on May 1. Depending on the region, it remains there either until the end of May, until the autumn period or sometimes for the whole year. The maypole is a tall tree decorated with ornaments and a crown. It’s ceremonially erected in many places, mostly at village squares followed by a procession which includes brass bands. The maypole, called “Maibaum” in German, is often erected on May 1. Goethe's Faust has also introduced the Walpurgis night to many readers. According to ancient folk customs, the witches were expelled with noise, dance, and fire. According to old folk belief, on Walpurgis Night or “Walpurgisnacht”, which is named after the Holy Walburga, who was the patron saint of farmers' wives and maids, people gathered to scare away witches and the evil spirits of winter with a wild dance on broomsticks called “Besenstiele”. In many towns and cities, people go to dance events held in May.Īccording to legend, on the night of April 30 to May 1, the celebration of the witches and demons took place on the famous Mount Brocken in the Harz mountain range. The awakening of spring in nature is heralded by many celebrations, which have their origins in the "Warming up of May". Even in music, May is a theme of many folk songs, such as "The Merry Month of May is Here", "Smiling May Comes in to Play", or "Fly May Bug". The well-known plants and herbs of the month include lily of the valley, chervil, hops, watercress, and nettle. The month of May has a special place in the annual cycle, because winter is finally over and plants start to grow and flourish. If you don't already know, you’ll find out a bit later, so keep listening! Which drink is especially popular in this season? In May in Germany we will see the first celebrations that take advantage of the warming weather, as they happen outside on a balcony or in a garden. Now, before we get into more detail, I've got a question for you. On the night of April 30th to May 1st, many dance events are held throughout Germany. In this lesson, we’ll discuss how people celebrate Dance into May, called “Tanz in den Mai” in Germany.
I’m Matt, and you're listening to Season 1, Lesson 16 - Dance Into May. In this series, we’re exploring the traditions behind German holidays and observances.
#WITCHFIRE PDF SERIES#
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