Bavarian Festivals with an Historical Flavor
The following lists two historical Bavarian festivals that are not to be missed!
Rothenberg, Bavaria
The Rothenburg historical play “Der Meistertrunk–The Master Draught”
Visit the charming medieval town of Rothenburg, Germany for this play and festivities. The play reenacts an event from the Thirty Years War, which occurred in 1631, when Rothenburg was defeated by the imperial troops under Count Tilly. When offered a welcome drink of over 3 liters of wine, the count offered leniency if someone could drink the whole tankard in one swig. Mayor Nusch accepted the challenge and saved his town from destruction. This annual play premiered in 1881 and accompanies hundred of citizens who dress up in period costumes, historical parades, a 17th century bivouac and military camps, a Bavarian beer garden and colorful markets. For more information, visit their official site at: http://en.meistertrunk.de/
View of Isar river in Landshut, Germany
The “Landshut Wedding”
The historic town of Landshut comes alive with the tastes, smells, sights and sounds of a late Middle Ages celebration. The reenactment of the wedding of the Polish King’s daughter Hedwig, to the Duke of Wittelsbach Georg of Bavaria-Landshut, takes place each weekend during the three weeks. The actual wedding occurred in 1475 and was recorded by several locals. Each weekend over 2,000 citizens stage the grandeur of the late period dressed in authentic-looking costumes. Other events during this time include: Tavern in the Speckengassen, Masque, Court Music of 1475, knights tournament (jousting and tilting).
Fridays before the wedding, offer families an opportunity to discover life during the Middle Ages with hands-on experiences. Or listen to a storyteller of legends and fairytales reminiscent of 1475. Camps outside the jousting field house groups that end their day with music and merriment around campfires roasting suckling pigs. For more information: http://www.landshuter-hochzeit.de/en/the-festival.html