MAIFEST

A special annual tradition in the Amanas that celebrates the spring and all that is new around the first of May is MAIFEST. This tradition that dates back to the 16th century Germany where a ceremonial folk dance takes place around a decorated pole and young garlanded ladies weave ribbons into complex patterns around the pole as they step dance to accordion music. This was carried on from ancient dances around a living tree as part of a spring rite to ensure fertility of the season.You will see Maipoles at the entrance to town and by the shops, also the ladies carry a colorful pole to different dance sites in town. The practice for this dance goes on long before the day so all are ready to perform for MAIFEST weekend. There can be several generations of one family in the group. All, fun to watch!