Maifest, a German Tradition

Since 1881, a very colorful scene has unfolded in Brenham, Texas each May. This festival is known as Maifest. It is a celebration highlighting our proud German heritage as well as showcasing the youth of our community. Except for several years during World War I and World War II, this event has been held annually since 1881 and has evolved into one of the most widely attended festivals in Texas.

Each year, hundreds of volunteers work countless hours to produce a Junior and Senior parade and coronation along with a fun filled festival which includes a Kinder Village, authentic German tastes and sounds, cooking contests as well as quality artisans from around the state.

Maifest marks the revival of life in early spring after a long cold winter. In medieval times, Maifest became the favorite holiday. People would gather spring flowers to decorate their homes and churches. They chose a King and Queen of May and villagers danced around the Maipole.

In 1986, the Axel F. Baehren Family of Brenham, Texas donated the Maipole located on the grounds of Fireman’s Park. The current Maipole is based on the design of a Maipole that dates back to 1762 A.D., the replica of which is now standing in Bavaria, West Germany. Brenham’s Maipole depicts the figures found in the Maifest logo.

The week is kicked off with an official ribbon cutting and Maipole dance. Friday showcases the Junior Maifest courts and Saturday focuses on the Senior Maifest courts. Saturday starts with a morning parade in historic downtown Brenham which include area bands, beautifully decorated floats, clowns and all the entries that make a parade exciting. The parade starts at 10:30am at the corner of Market St & Main St, turns around at Austin St and returns via Alamo St.

Immediately following the parade an all-you-can-eat ice cream festival begins with the opening of Maifestival at Fireman’s Park. The evening celebrations are held at the Fireman’s Park Baseball Field and include performances highlighting the local youth depicting the themes for the year. Live music concludes the evenings in the park. The festival continues through Sunday with many of the same activities as well as bean bag tournaments and a home-brew beer competition.

Come join us May 2-4, 2014, to celebrate our long-standing German heritage tradition!
More info: www.Maifest.org or www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com