Maifest – A Birthday Celebration for Richard Wagner

Vimeo of this event: https://vimeo.com/558650985

Join us for a virtual celebration of Richard Wagner’s Birthday with a MAIFEST. Following in the spirit of the successful virtual Cosima Party, The Wagner Society will create another memorable event.
Maifest celebrates the arrival of spring, nature’s bright reawakening after winter’s cold and darkness. Maifest (Mayfest) has its roots in one of mankind’s oldest traditions! What was once an ancient pagan festival eventually took on Christian religious significance, and has evolved to become a colorful, joyous part of European history and culture, with distinctive traditions like the Maibaum (May Pole). The Maifest tradition lives on in many communities in the United States, the largest of which is held in Fort Worth, TX (!).
The Maibaum (May Pole) is erected in the town square and celebrations culminate with young girls dancing around the May Pole and the crowning of the May Queen. Rival villages make sport out of the tradition by stealing the May Pole of neighboring communities.
WSNC will try to capture the spirit with Food, Wine and Beer recommendations for our attendees. A recital will also be presented for our viewers.
While we cannot gather in person, the Society will celebrate Richard with this unique event (on his actual birth date!).