Landesgartenshau - Bamberg

Honey Bees are seen frequently here, and it is a huge "taboo" to harm them (even if they are trying to get into your food or drink, you should only try to brush them away...

This playground was neat, because it has trampolines built into the ground....

The water playground is a favorite among the kids

relaxing, listening to music

A rock bridge to cross from one side to another

Old Architecture fixed up with legos :-)

Must have been a great view of the show

crossing the river

A great Day!

Just like cities can  bid on the Olympics, cities in Germany can host the "Landesgartenshau." aka - Land of the Garden show. Last year, the host was Koblenz, and this year, the host is Bamberg. In preparation (similar to the Olympics, but on a much smaller scale obviously), the city has spent several years, and millions of dollars in getting everything ready to host. The event began in April and lasts through October. My Mom took the kids there in June, and Camden went with school in July, Bailey performed with her cheerleading team, but yesterday was the first time that we all had gone together. I must say - I was completely impressed. It is a HUGE event - much bigger than I thought. Over a half a million people have attended since it opened in April, and it has brought oodles of tourism to Bamberg. They have a huge playground and natural water park for the kids, hammocks and huge pillows laid out everywhere to leisurely spend your afternoon. They have animals, bees, restaurants, and tons and tons of flowers and agricultural exhibits. It reminded me a little of the flower exhibit at Epcot Center. The best part, is that after the show ends in October, the city residents will get to use all of the playgrounds, water parks, land for free. A fantastic day!