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What is Weiberfasching?
Also known as Weiberfastnacht, this unofficial holiday marks the beginning of the street carnival celebrations in a large part of Germany. Traditionally, the merrymaking starts at 11:11 on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday. It may be hard to find anyone at work after that time on Weiberfastnacht! It dates back to at least 1823 in Cologne. The word Weiberfastnacht literally means women's abstinence night, however exactly the opposite of abstinence is to be expected! 15 hours of partying could hardly be called abstinence!
What is Weiberfast nacht?
Weiberfastnacht - also known as Weiberfasching or Wieverfastelovend (Kölsch) marks the transition from hall-based carneval celebrations to street carnivals during Fasching. Weiberfastnacht takes place on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday. It is also known as Altweiberfasching, Altweiberfastnacht or simply Altweiber (Krieewelsch: Aalwiewer).In its heartland of the Rheinland, Weiberfastnacht is an unofficial holiday, and most places of work close at midday. The celebrations normally begin at 11.11 am. Unlike Rosenmontag (Rose Monday), which is celebrated on the Monday before Ash Wednesday, there are no processions. People dress up in costumes and celebrate in bars and in the street. It is customary for women to cut off men's ties (a symbol of male potency) on Weiberfastnacht, leaving the men to walk around with just the stump. In return the men are compensated with a Bützchen (kiss).
What are women traditionally allowed to do on weiberfastnacht?
On Weiberfastnacht, which marks the beginning of the Carnival season in Germany, women traditionally take on a more liberated role. They are allowed to cut off men's ties as a symbolic gesture of empowerment and to assert their freedom. This day also features women dressing in costumes, celebrating with music and dance, and participating in various festivities, often taking the lead in revelry and merriment. Overall, it is a day where traditional gender roles are playfully subverted.
What are woman allowed to do on weiberfastnacht?
On Weiberfastnacht, or Women's Carnival, which is celebrated in parts of Germany, women traditionally take the lead in festivities. They are allowed to cut off men's ties as a playful gesture of empowerment, symbolizing the reversal of roles during the carnival season. Additionally, women often participate in parades, dress in costumes, and engage in singing and dancing, celebrating camaraderie and fun. The day marks a festive occasion where women embrace their spirit and enjoy a break from traditional norms.
