Maifest (or Mayfest in English) is the traditional German celebration of the arrival of spring. Maifest is still celebrated throughout
Germany with the ''maibaum'' (
maypole
A maypole is a tall wooden pole erected as a part of various European folk festivals, around which a maypole dance often takes place.
The festivals may occur on 1 May or Pentecost (Whitsun), although in some countries it is instead erected at ...
) decorated to show off the history and crafts of the town.
Maifest, similar to
Oktoberfest, has now become a popular celebration throughout the world. Several communities in the
United States celebrate Maifest yearly. It has been celebrated in
Cincinnati,
Ohio,
United States since 1873.
Brenham, Texas
Brenham ( ) is a city in east-central Texas in Washington County, United States, with a population of 17,369 according to the 2020 U.S. census. It is the county seat of Washington County.
Washington County is known as the "Birthplace of Texas, ...
has celebrated Maifest since 1880. Over the years, the celebration has become a community-wide tradition, drawing spectators and participants from all parts of the community. The beginning of Maifest is treated as a town holiday, with
Brenham ISD
Brenham Independent School District is a public school district based in Brenham, Texas, US. While mostly located in Washington County, a very small portion of the district extends into Austin County. The district serves the City of Brenham and ...
releasing students early on the Friday before.
The town of
Hermann, Missouri also celebrates Maifest, on the third weekend of May.
References
Culture of Bavaria
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