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| Hello, and welcome to the Culture Class- Holidays in Germany Series at GermanPod101.com. In this series, we’re exploring the traditions behind German holidays and observances. I’m Matt, and you're listening to Season 1, Lesson 16 - Dance Into May. |
| In this lesson, we’ll discuss how people celebrate Dance into May, called “Tanz in den Mai” in Germany. On the night of April 30th to May 1st, many dance events are held throughout Germany. |
| Now, before we get into more detail, I've got a question for you- |
| 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. Which drink is especially popular in this season? |
| If you don't already know, you’ll find out a bit later, so keep listening! |
| The month of May has a special place in the annual cycle, because winter is finally over and plants start to grow and flourish. The well-known plants and herbs of the month include lily of the valley, chervil, hops, watercress, and nettle. 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 awakening of spring in nature is heralded by many celebrations, which have their origins in the "Warming up of May". In many towns and cities, people go to dance events held in May. |
| According 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. 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”. According to ancient folk customs, the witches were expelled with noise, dance, and fire. Goethe's Faust has also introduced the Walpurgis night to many readers. |
| The maypole, called “Maibaum” in German, is often erected on May 1. It’s ceremonially erected in many places, mostly at village squares followed by a procession which includes brass bands. The maypole is a tall tree decorated with ornaments and a crown. Depending on the region, it remains there either until the end of May, until the autumn period or sometimes for the whole year. Many people visit village or city fairs that take place on May 1. |
| The witch fire or “Hexenfeuer”, which is kindled on April 30 and is celebrated in many parts of Germany, aims to expel evil spirits. In some parts of Germany, May jumping is a common custom. At this event, lovers jump together over the burning May fire. |
| Now it's time to answer our quiz question- |
| Which drink is especially popular in this season? |
| A classic drink for May is the woodruff punch. It consists of white wine, semi-dry sparkling wine and woodruff. Woodruff is a plant that grows in deciduous forests, is 5-50 centimeters high, and usually blooms in May. |
| So listeners, how did you like this lesson? Did you learn anything interesting? Do you celebrate any similar festivals in your country? Leave a comment telling us at GermanPod101.com. Until next time! |
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