Maibaumsetzen Lisdorf

Walpurgis Night Tradition in Saarland

The Maypole raising on the evening of April 30th is an old tradition in many German-speaking regions – in Saarland, it is actively maintained, especially in the Saarlouis area. Lisdorf, a district of Saarlouis with about 4,500 inhabitants, has established a fixed May celebration date through its Lisdorf fire brigade of Saarlouis Volunteer Fire Department: On April 30th at 6:00 PM, firefighters, club members, and residents gather in front of the fire station.

Music and Dance Before Raising

Before the Maypole is erected, the Marching Band of the Ost Fire Brigade District provides the musical accompaniment. Together with the Lyra Lisdorf-Picard Music Association, they form the musical backbone of the evening. The Youth Guard of the LiGeKa – the Lisdorf Community Carnival Association – plays a special role with a dance performance. Thus, the Maypole raising unites the fire department, carnival, and music clubs from the district.

The Children's Fire Brigade Decorates the Pole

A beautiful Saarland tradition: Before the Maypole is erected, the Drachenbande Children's Fire Brigade decorates it with colorful ribbons, branches, and small figures. This custom involves the next generation in the fire department's work and simultaneously ensures the festive decoration of the pole.

Raising and Comradeship Evening

After the welcome by Fire Brigade Leader Christoph Jenal, the Maypole is raised together – in Saarland, a task that requires strength and coordination. At the command, the pole goes up. Afterwards, the cozy part begins with catering, food, and drinks, which often lasts late into the evening.

In the Saarlouis District

Saarlouis, with a good 35,000 inhabitants, is one of the largest cities in western Saarland and the seat of the Saarlouis district. The city dates back to a fortress built by Louis XIV and still has a star-shaped city layout today. Lisdorf has been part of the city of Saarlouis since the 1974 administrative reform and is characterized by agriculture – the "Lisdorfer Land" is considered the vegetable pantry of Saarland with numerous farm shops.