What is a maypole?
A tall tree trunk, stripped of branches and peeled, usually spruce or fir, raised around 1 May. It is often painted white and blue and decorated with guild emblems, plaques and a green wreath. More on the Tradition page.
When is the maypole raised?
Traditionally around 1 May, in many places on the holiday itself, sometimes already the night before. More under Raising.
Why do people raise a maypole?
As a sign of the start of spring and as a public self-portrait of a place: the guild emblems show the trades and clubs. The communal raising is also a celebration.
How long does a maypole stand?
It varies. Some trees come down at the end of May; many stay up for a year or more. The city maypole at the Viktualienmarkt is renewed about every five to six years.
How tall is a maypole?
Usually around 30 metres, individual record trees over 50 metres. The maypole at the Viktualienmarkt stands 34.5 metres.
How heavy is a maypole?
Several tonnes depending on height, which is why large trees are often raised only with a crane.
What does a maypole cost?
There is no flat figure. The price depends on height, painting, guild emblems and transport, plus foundation, raising, inspection and insurance. More under Buying.
Why are you allowed to steal a maypole?
Because maypole stealing is a custom with firm rules: the tree is taken only before raising, without force, and the ransom is paid in beer and food. More under Maypole Stealing.
Which wood is used for a maypole?
Usually spruce or fir. For the small love maypole, a birch.
Where is Munich's best-known maypole?
At the Viktualienmarkt in the old town. The shows every location in the city.