June 2 , 2009

Written June 14

Friends and Families ,

What's the best beer bash in Germany? Munich's Oktoberfest you say? Frankonians would claim that's just for tourists and one must go to Erlangen's Bergkirchweih for an authentic Bavarian party. It has been held since 1755 and currently runs for 12 days across the end of May and beginning of June.

This year, Marianne joined the senior and junior Hofmanns on her first "Berg". (John, as usual, had to work.) Fun was had by all and, next year, John promises to attend.

	The Bergkirchweih is held on the hillside on the edge of Erlangen. Beer gardens are set up throughout the area with all the traditional crowds, music, Frankish food, beer, and "gemultlichkeit". Reportedly, Marianne limited herself to a single "Mas", or one-liter mug.
	There is a full carnival atmosphere, dominated by a huge Ferris wheel. This year there was an elaborate bungee ride set up as well. Not everyone looks like they enjoyed the springy experience.
	Even the pretzels are bigger at a good festival!
	Betti and Albrecht Hofmann enjoyed their zillionth Bergkirchweih. "Young" Friedrich celebrated the sun and Frankish-speaking crowd. (HE could understand everything!)

So, we recommend a May visit for a great festival but, of course, we need to work in that misnamed Munich fest next September too.

John and Marianne

* Website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bergkirchweih