Maibaum
Overview
A Maibaum (or maypole in English) is a tall wooden pole erected as a part of European folk festivals usually occuring on May 1st, around which a maypole dance often takes place. Today, the tradition is still observed in some parts of Europe and among European communities in the Americas, like Leavenworth!
History
Maypoles were erected "simply" as "signs that the happy season of warmth and comfort had returned" according to historians. The anthropologist Mircea Eliade theorizes that the maypoles were simply a part of the general rejoicing at the return of summer, and the growth of new vegetation. In this way, they bore similarities with the May Day garlands which were also a common festival practice in Britain and Ireland.
In Germany and Austria, the maypole is a tradition going back to the 16th century. It is a decorated tree or tree trunk that is usually erected either on May 1st. In most areas, especially in Bavaria, it is common to have a ceremony to erect the maypole on the village green. The custom of combining it with a village or town fete, that usually takes place on May 1st is widespread. This tradition is especially strong in the villages of the Bavarian Alps where the raising of the traditional maypole on May 1st in the village square is a cause for much celebration. The pole is usually painted in the Bavarian colours of white and blue and decorated with emblems depicting local crafts and industry. Take a close look at the paintings above you!
Just before the Maibaum is erected, depending on the region, there may be a procession through the village, usually ending up at a central place and watched by crowds of spectators and accompanied by a band. While the crowds usually while away the time drinking beer and eating sausages, the young men busy themselves with decorating the maypole to get the symbols of various trades representing the region into the right position.
Leavenworth Maifest
For the month of May, Leavenworth celebrates Maifest, the annual Bavarian tradition to welcome the Spring. This year (2022) features expanded entertainment including traditional Maipole dancing and Festzug march through downtown; a cider sip; fun run; Mother’s Day flowers and treats; chainsaw carvers and live German music and performers.
To log this Virtual Cache:
1. Look up at the paintings topping the maibaum; choose one and decribe it in detail. Which craft or industry do you think it represents?
2. Look down at the base of the pole; what is carved into the concrete and what do you think it means?
3. Optionally, feel free to include a photo of your group visiting Leavenworth's Maibaum (but without the maibaum paintings visible please)!
Remember to drop a favi point on the best of your last ten caches!
References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maypole
- https://leavenworth.org/maifest/
- https://www.facebook.com/LeavenworthWA
- https://blogs.transparent.com/german/maypoles-a-summery-german-tradition/
Virtual Rewards 3.0 - 2022-2023
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between March 1, 2022 and March 1, 2023. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards 3.0 on the Geocaching Blog.