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The Tradition of the Maypole
Maibaum Tradition, © Pixabay
Every year in May, people in Germany are celebrating a tradition from the 16th century. Erecting a maypole (Maibaum) in the midst of their community centers on May 1st or on the evening before is accompanied by a procession through the village.
The procession is usually the start of a joyful celebration with food, drinks, and brass bands playing. The tradition originates from the Germanics, who worshipped forest gods and the recurrence of spring but through the decades it mixed with Christian beliefs. Depending on local customs, the painting and decoration of the maypole differs and might be taken down at the end of May or remain in place throughout the summer.