Mostfest is the "Most" Fun! :)

One of my favorite things about Germany is the fact that every city holds a festival (i.e. "Stadtfest") during the summer.  The festivals are held in honor of various things such as brezeln (pretzels), flowers, fruit, lake rabbits (more on that one next week! :)), wine, beer, and so on...  There are a wide variety of  food and drink tents, parades, theatrical performances, rides, fireworks, musical performances, and arts and crafts markets.  Most of the festivities take place out in the open-air; however, some of the festivals take place in truly unique settings (i.e. on castle grounds, along lake fronts and rivers, in former military airports, smelting works facilities, in harbors, etc.).  Each and every festival offers up something that is truly unique to that city or region.

During our time in Germany, the one thing that we have learned is that the Germans take their festivals very seriously!  Every German takes pride in the festival of their own city.  It is not uncommon to hear Germans explain why they think that "their festival" is the best one in Germany.  As outsiders, Brian and I have always found this discussion quite humorous as we find all of the festivals to be quite fun and entertaining.  We have found that each and every one is unique in its own sense, and by partaking in the festivities, we've gotten a taste of each city's local "flavor".  Overall, we've found that German festivals are a great place to soak up some local culture, enjoy great music, sample delicious foods, and drink some tasty German beer/wine! :)

While we're here in Germany this summer, there are a great many festivals taking place in this area.  We experienced our first festival of this trip just last night when we headed to the Ahausen Mostfest.  The Ahausen Mostfest honors a special type of wine, called "most", made from various fruits in the area.  The Mostfest took place in the heart of Ahausen and entertainment was provided by many of the local music groups! We took part in the festivities with a great group of friends, and needless to say, we had ourselves a "most" wonderful time! :)

Here's a little peak at our evening... :)

On our way to the fest! :)

Brian and Joerg prepping themselves during the walk there. ;)

Our friend, Kim, was busy at work in the food tent. :)

Most = Delicious!

The Ahausen Mostfest!

Prost to the Mostfest!

Brian and Benjamin were having themselves a "most" wonderful time (I'm hilarious aren't I?! :))

The newlyweds! :)
I love the fact that the guy in the corner of the picture is wearing a shirt with the name of the festival on it! :)

Denise and I...
Love her! :)

Kim was keeping an eye on Michelle's purse and making sure it didn't go anywhere! :)

Katrina and I practicing our picture taking pose! :)

Love these girls! :)

Carrying four biers through a crowd of Germans without spilling any...
This man has skills! :)
Impressive, Markus... Very impressive!

The whole gang! :)