Maypole surprise: Fraternity Reisach steals in the village!

Maypole surprise: Fraternity Reisach steals in the village!

In a classic tradition that is deeply rooted in the culture of southern Germany and Austrian space, the Burschen von Reisach caused a consent in Kötschach-Mauthen with a courageous campaign. On May 29, 2025, the local maypole, which was previously guarded by the men and boys of the community, was successfully stolen. The surprise attack was carried out under the direction of a brave man named Thomas, who, with his impressive climbing technology, separated the tip of the maypole using a saw. This campaign was documented with many photos and videos, which made the round a short time later and held the event visibly. According to the Gailtal Journal, the maypole is not only considered a sign of skill and courage, but also as an important form of customs care.

The puzzles for the duration of this “maypole -free” state in the village square remain unclear. Historically speaking, the maypole is planned as a custom before May if the towns are competing for the highest and most beautiful maypoles. The maypole itself has played an important role in the German and Austrian folklore for centuries and is often decorated and set up until autumn. In some regions it is assumed that stealing the maypole serves to drive away evil spirits, a theory that is discussed by various researchers.

rules and importance of maypole theft

The maypole stealing follows certain regional rules that need to be observed. So the boys have to be careful that the tree is stolen outside their own community, and it is only considered conquered when it exceeds the municipal boundary. It is also important that only the bare trunk or the aluminum mast of the maypole may be stolen while the jewelry remains unaffected. In addition, the tree must not be set up if it is stolen. A fact that leads to funny complications among the affected communities again and again, since the robbery is obliged to pay a trigger that is often carried out in the form of a sociable snack. Otherwise, the maypole could be set up as a "shame" next to its own maypole, which is seen as a considerable eyesight.

It becomes particularly exciting when the time in which maypoles can be stolen. From the end of March the likelihood that a village will be surprised by the neighbors.

The events in Kötschach-Mauthen once again show how alive and active this tradition is. With every maypole stealing, a piece of customs is preserved and the local community is given the opportunity to keep their traditions alive in a creative way.