German Holidays - May Day (Maifeiertag)

On May 1, all Germans ordered and noisily celebrated the May Day, or, as it is commonly called in Germany, Maifeiertag This event is directly related to the revival of nature, its flourishing, since winter has already finally passed and has completely given up its rights to the long-awaited spring If you look at the traditions and customs of the May Day, we can conclude that the Germans took quite a lot from their ancestors, the pagans So, the main symbol on this day is the Maibaum, or Maypole, which is installed in the central square of all German cities It is a tall pillar with a wreath on top The tree is usually decorated with green twigs and flowers It must also have seven multi-colored ribbons In small towns, the metal tree pole itself is decorated with beautiful carvings So, on it you can see figures of men and women, churches and cathedrals, and tools The Germans claim that the Maypole represents life itself, health and fertility Seven ribbons are all the colors of the rainbow, which always appears in the sky when the rain stops and the bright sun comes out, which contributes to a good and rich harvest The pillar symbolizes the masculine principle, but the wreath symbolizes the feminine And together they give new life It is also very important that May 1 is a day off in all federal states of Germany, which gives the Germans the opportunity to have a good and heartfelt rest Almost all cities host folk festivals: fairs with tastings of national cuisine, festive concerts with cheerful songs and fiery dances, and competitions For example, in some villages, shirts and boots are tied to the top of the Maypole, and whoever can get there will receive a gift But late in the evening, when it is already well dark, everyone can admire the festive fireworks