Nationwide Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Malchow Folk Fair
The Folk Fair in Malchow, 160 years old, is the oldest homeland festival in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. It was the first folk festival that was celebrated independently from the Church as a worldly event and was therefore considered to be a sign of independence.
Facts & figures
Crucial date: 1st weekend of July
Inscription: 2014
Domains: social practices, rituals and festive events
Where to find: Malchow, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Contact
Volksfestverein e.V.
www.volksfest-malchow.de
Organised by citizens for citizens, the fair has always served the purpose of cultural education and community solidarity. Companies, sports and cultural societies plus many citizens of Malchow and the surrounding areas participate in the great festival procession. Every year a manifold programme of events is organised, whereof music is an essential component. One example is the “Musikalische Wecken” (Musical Waking), whereby the inhabitants of the various city districts are roused from their sleep by parades of musicians and brass bands.
Highlights of the festival are the parade of boats with decorated and illuminated vessels and the ensuing firework display accompanied by classical music. To commonly take time out from daily life in a good mood and to be able to laugh together are import aspects of Malchow’s folk fair.
Thanks to the Malchow folk fair traditions are upheld, passed on and at the same time continuously re-shaped. The creative spirit of each individual is reflected in the costumes, decorated boats and various stage presentations.
