Maypole raising

The Maypole is a trunk that is 12 to 20 meters high and has been stripped of its bark. A few days before the Maypole is erected, the youth weave a garland and a wreath from yew to decorate the trunk. A young birch is tied to the top as a crown. Below it, the wreath decorated with colorful ribbons is attached. The Maypole is then wrapped with the garland from the wreath downwards. The erection of the Maypole is carried out by the volunteer fire department of Burg Dorf and Burg Kauper. Before the erection, the couples from the Burg youth bring the wreath to the festival site, which is done with a small parade to the celebration area. After the Maypole is erected, people dance into May with food and drinks to the music of the Lutzketaler musicians. More information: Traditions in the Spreewald.