Eifel celebrates May Day traditions

Published April 29, 2011
By Iris Reiff
52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Those looking for something to do this weekend may want to look for their personal belongings Saturday and Sunday after the "witches" have strolled through town.

There is a reason people should not leave things outside and should their park the car in the garage Saturday, and that is "witches night," held April 30, the night before "Tag der Arbeit," or Labor Day, a federal German holiday. Starting around bedtime until the next morning, mysterious witches haunt local towns, causing some strange things to happen.

The "witches," known to be the youngsters in town, make things disappear and show up somewhere else. In the past witches taken patio furniture from one person's house and moved it into the next-door neighbors' front yard or to the roof. Also, people looking for lawn toys left on the patio overnight may find them scattered throughout the area or hanging in a nearby tree.

Very popular items that also tend to disappear are flower pots, trash cans and door mats. While it is rather difficult to prevent things from appearing in your front yard following witches night, it is fairly easy to make sure nothing disappears by moving them inside the house for the night.

Also, don't be surprised if you find your car decorated with toilet paper or other items. If a garage is available, it is recommended that people park their vehicle inside.

German Labor Day

Germans observe Labor Day, or May Day, with a variety of different customs and traditions. The most common symbol for the holiday is the May pole -- a symbol of freedom.

Almost every community has their own tree, usually set up by members of the local fire departments. Since the May pole is also an object of prestige for a town, it must be guarded around the clock during witches' night against theft or destruction.

Other customs associated with May Day feature dances and celebrations in either a gasthaus or a community hall April 30.

Although many of the traditions are observed by the youngsters, especially the bachelor's clubs, most Germans use the holiday to spend time with friends and family. People often either take a trip or host a barbecue, if weather permits.

On May Day it is also customary for Germans to go on walks and volksmarches.
People wish to relax and enjoy the day.

Since the holiday falls on a Sunday and Germans aren't able to take the following work day off, there is no question about shopping since stores in Germany will be closed.