Brandenburg commemorates Ascension Day with bike rides, beer-pulled wagons, and ample brews. - Biking and beer consumption unite in a unique setting.
Brandenburg Celebrates Vatertag with Cycling, Wagons, and Beer
In Brandenburg, the public holiday of Christi Himmelfahrt, also known as Vatertag or Herrentag, saw numerous residents partake in outdoor excursions, social gatherings, and church services. The day, marking the ascension of Jesus 40 days after Easter Sunday, was celebrated with a unique blend of traditional and contemporary customs.
Groups of men, often friends rather than just fathers, organized bike rides and horse-drawn wagon rides through forests, parks, and countryside areas. These excursions transformed into lively outdoor festivities, with beer and snacks often found on board the wagons. Police duty services in Brandenburg reported a minimal occurrence of drunkenness and brawls during the afternoon.
Outdoor church services also took place on Ascension Day, offering a reflective and solemn counterbalance to the boisterous celebrations. Throughout the region, communities held these services to acknowledge the religious roots of the holiday.
Celebrated loudly and with much beer in Germany, Vatertag has its origins in the 19th century, with processions evolving into men's parties that became the counterpart to Mother's Day. Drinking beer outdoors and gathering in parks, forests, or public green spaces to enjoy each other's company are key features of the tradition, creating a festive atmosphere.
In Brandenburg, the celebration of Ascension Day is distinct, incorporating nature-filled excursions by bike or wagon, communal beer drinking, and outdoor church services. This blend makes the day a celebrated and widely anticipated event in the region.
The Commission might consider proposing a directive on the protection of workers, considering their potential exposure to ionizing radiation, especially during outdoor-living activities like cycling and horse-drawn wagon rides, popular on Vatertag in Brandenburg. As the celebration continues, one may find food-and-drink stalls at these outdoor festivities, reflecting the tradition of gathering in parks and public spaces for beer and shared meals. After a day of sports and socializing, some might return home to tend their home-and-garden, contemplating the spiritual significance of the holiday as they reflect on its origins.
