Hollerbach's Willow Tree Cafe, Fasching 2012

What is Fasching? You may think Oktoberfest is big, but Fasching or Fastnacht is a real party. The event is also known as Germany's 'Silly Season' because it is filled with foolish activities and jollity for an entire week of events. It is common for thousands of clubs and taverns to host costume balls and dances. Fasching is celebrated a little different from region to region, but is very popular in the Rhineland where Theo is from. There are many odd traditions that we like to observe to make Theo feel like he is home. 

They begin on Thursday February 16th with Weiberfastnacht (Ladies Fasching) where the women dress as witches and pull pranks on the town and even cut off men's ties with scissors. In Bitburg, it is custom for the ladies of the town to 'take over' city hall and retrieve the city's key from the mayor. We may not be able to invade city hall, but we have our own ceremony here at the Willow Tree with Theo as our Buergermeister. Then, we move on the Friday Feb. 17th with Support Your Sports where you can support your favorite team. Saturday, Feb. 18th brings us to our traditional Bavarian Night where everyone is dressed in dirndls and lederhosen. Sunday, Feb. 19th is International Night where you have to opportunity to show off how your culture celebrates Carnival. Finally, we get to Tuesday, Feb. 21st . The Maskenball (Costume Party) is your chance to be creative and whimsical. 


Last year's event was great and we have already been preparing our costumes for this year. There will be a costume contest with prizes for Best Costume (male and female), Best Group, and Best Couple. Costumes are greatly encouraged, but not required. Reservations are already very full, so call now to reserve your spot for this unique experience. Now that you have learned more about Fasching, I'm sure you're dying to join in on our fun.