Vilseck Kirwa

This past weekend we participated in the Vilseck Kirwafest. Kirwa means "celebration of the consecration of a church." Every town has their own Kirwa, usually held in the fall.

On Saturday, Chris helped all of the local German men lift the Kirwa tree. This is no ordinary tree. It was several stories high and decorated with ribbons and wreaths. The process of lifting the tree is a lengthy one. Long sticks tied together with rope are place on either side of the tree. Inch by inch the tree rises as the men push up on the sticks. The head Kirwa organizer calls out instructions to the men. For his hard work, Chris was rewarded with a free beer from one of the locals.

Chris and his friend Steven pushing up the Kirwa tree

Chris and I enjoying a beer after the tree was lifted

Then on Sunday a church service is held, followed by the Kirwa boys picking up the Kirwa girls and parading into the castle square.

The band marching into the square

Adorable Vilseck children in their traditional clothes

The young adults of Vilseck then sang and danced around the Kirwa tree.

Baskets full of sweets were added to the tree overnight

One girl and one boy then climbed the ladder to the baskets

They then threw down sweets to the awaiting children

All of the participants in front of the Kirwa tree

 Later that night, the party continued with a band and of course, beer!

Chris and I loved being able to experience true local German culture. We enjoy seeing all of the tourist attractions in the major cities, but this was a unique experience most tourists don't get to see. The German people are very connected to their heritage and embrace their traditions.