Additional Details on Uerdingen's Kirmess Fair: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The age-old Krefeld-Uerdingen Pantaleon-Fair will commence on July 25.
The Kirmess Fair in Uerdingen, a district of Krefeld in Germany, has a rich history and a vibrant present. Here are some additional details that highlight the evolution and significance of this annual event:
Key Traditional Practices
- Official Opening: The Kirmess is traditionally opened by the district mayor swinging a cylinder from the town hall balcony, signifying the start of the festivities.
- Barrel Organ Music: Barrel organ players fill the historic market square with music, creating a lively atmosphere to mark the start of the festival.
- Fair Cake: Families bake and cook enthusiastically, including a special fair cake with raisins, almonds, citron, and roast, a delicious tradition that has been passed down through generations.
- Community Bonding: Visiting the fairground remains a social event for the Uerdingers, fostering community ties and strengthening local bonds.
Historical Milestones
- First Kirmess: The first recorded Kirmess in Uerdingen took place on St. Lawrence's Day, August 10th.
- First Change of Date: The date of the Kirmess was changed for the first time in 1774 to the first Wednesday after St. Catherine's Day, November 25th. This change was made to accommodate the needs of farmers and traders.
- Modern Kirmess: Since 1808, the Uerdingers have celebrated their Kirmess starting on the Sunday before St. Pantaleon's Day, July 27th. This modern date enables the fair to take place during the summer, allowing for better weather and increased visitor attendance.
Safety Measures and Guarantees
- Six Days of Safe Conduct: The Archbishop granted safe conduct to all visitors for six days around the Kirmess, ensuring the safety of participants and merchants.
- Lottery Allocation: Since the second half of the 19th century, showmen's stalls and carousels are allocated by lottery 14 days before the fair, ensuring fairness and transparency in the placement of attractions.
Modern Attractions
- Fireworks Display: The Kirmess ends with a large fireworks display, providing a spectacular conclusion to the festivities.
- Day Off: In the 20th century, the Monday of the fair was established as a day off for many, allowing people to fully enjoy the attractions and activities on offer.
In conclusion, the Kirmess Fair in Uerdingen is a unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while providing a platform for contemporary entertainment. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the Kirmess is an experience not to be missed!
The Kirmess Fair in Uerdingen allows visitors to appreciate a rich lifestyle, combining the charm of home-and-garden traditions with modern attractions. Additionally, the vibrant home-and-garden atmosphere is enhanced during the festivities, as families gather to cook traditional fair cakes, reminiscing about generations-old recipes.
