In some regions of Germany, especially in rural communities, the tradition of the maypole is still practiced to this day. A freshly felled tree trunk serves as the base and is mainly decorated with crepe. Not always, but often, young birch trees are used for this purpose.
Why is the birch tree suitable as a maypole?
An ideal maypole must betall, slim and straight. Most young birch trees meet these requirements. In some regions, love mamas are set up as a token of love. The birch tree that then blooms symbolically embodies the blossoming love of the admirer for his beloved.
What is the origin of the maypole and how is it decorated?
The origin of the maypole is stillnot clearly clarified or the common interpretations are controversial. It is quite possible that it has its origins in pagan Germanic rites, as Germanic people worshiped forest deities. The current form of the maypole, in which only the green top is left, the rest is freed from branches and decorated with a wreath and crepe paper, has been around since the 16th century. Many local customs have developed around setting up and decorating the maypole, which can vary from village to village. Some of the birch trees are only put up at Pentecost.
How does the Love Maien custom work?
Liebesmaien are small maypoles, usually birch trees, which are set up by unmarried men in a communityin front of the houses of unmarried women. This custom is practiced in many different ways in Germany and has been weakened in modern times. For example, in the Rhineland and some other regions, the Love Maien is meaningfully decorated and placed specifically in front of the house of one's loved one. A few concise data:
- Maypole stays until June 1st
- will then be picked up by the standee
- he gets beer from the girl's father
- mother bakes him a cake
- if he is also desired, the girl will kiss him
Incidentally, there are also so-called Schandmaien. These are often fir trees, cherry or thorn branches, which are used to expose girls with a “bad reputation”.
Can I cut down the birch for the maypole myself?
In principle, you can cut down a birch tree yourself if the tree belongs to you or the owner has allowed you to do so. However, keep in mind that there arelegal restrictions on felling trees, which may vary from region to region. Transporting the felled birch to the new location may also pose a challenge. It must be secured and transported in such a way that no traffic damage can occur.
Tip
Ask a tree nursery for a birch tree for the maypole
Felling down, transporting and setting up the maypole is a laborious and time-consuming affair. If you don't want to do without the maypole, you can purchase a birch tree and, if necessary, also book all the services associated with it.
