May 1st: Celebration of the May Tree

It's a custom in Germany to set up a "May Tree" in every city and village on May first. This comes together with a celebration.

The May Tree as we know it today (with the gree tip and the wreath hanging from it) was already known in the same form in the 16th century. Back then it was used for church celebrations and as an honor for individuals. Starting from the 19th century it was also used for towns and villages for a celebration at the beginning of summer.

from left to right: Father Elmar Funk(he had been the protestant priest in Kirchheimbolanden for 34 years until he retired in 2004), Ray Krone, the major of the town Klaus Hartmüller, Bill Pelke and Ludgar Grünewald from Amnesty Kirchheimboldanden

Terri, Bill and Ray had the chance to see such a celebration here in Germany when they were at Kirchheimbolanden on May 1st.

In his speach the major Klaus Hartmüller introdruced them to the public, told the audience about their mission and about the tour through Germany.