Tanz in den Mai Strausberg

Maypole, Maibock, May Dance

When the sun sets over Strausberg Lake on April 30th, one of Brandenburg's oldest festival traditions begins in the old town: 'Tanz in den Mai'. On the historic market square — the heart of the medieval town layout by the Strausberg Market Tower — the Maypole is erected, the Maibock is tapped, and people dance until midnight. A custom that the city has cherished for generations and celebrates every year on the eve of May 1st.

Erection of the Maypole

The event kicks off with the ceremonial erection of the Maypole at the foot of the market. A painted Maypole, adorned with wreaths, is traditionally raised by city helpers — a feat of craftsmanship achieved without modern lifting equipment, offering an impressive spectacle. The Maypole remains standing until Pentecost and symbolizes fertility and the awakening of nature after winter.

Maibock Tapping with Mayor Elke Stadeler

The highlight is the Maibock tapping, traditionally celebrated by Mayor Elke Stadeler in cooperation with the Woltersdorfer Schleusenbrauerei. The Maibock — a strong, hopped bock beer — is tapped and served from a wooden barrel in the market square. It's not just a cozy toast between the mayor and the brewer, but a ceremonial act with all attendees as witnesses: the official start of the warm season.

Dancing, Food, and Atmosphere

After the ceremonial start, the market square transforms into a dance floor. Live bands and DJs provide music from several decades — from folk music and Schlager to pop and rock. Various stalls offer regional food (bratwurst, steak, fries, vegetarian options) and drinks (besides Maibock, also beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages). The atmosphere is familial, with Strausberg residents and visitors from the surrounding area — a festival where conversations flow easily.

Eve of the Spring Festival

'Tanz in den Mai' ushers in the actual Strausberg Spring Festival, which continues on May 1st with further program points — traditionally including Maypole climbing, family activities, and musical entertainment. Those who celebrate from Thursday evening into Friday can seamlessly transition into the next festival day.

Strausberg and the Historic Market Square

Strausberg, with around 26,000 inhabitants, is the largest city in the Märkisch-Oderland district, located northeast of Berlin. It boasts an exceptionally well-preserved old town with a city wall, the 14th-century Market Tower, and historic market buildings. The market square is a perfect festival ensemble — and only a few minutes from the S-Bahn terminus Strausberg Stadt.