Sandkirchweih

I LOVE German pretzels!!!

Sand Strasse

The "fischer" jousting is one of the main attractions to the festival

This is a tricky spot to get to with the crowds, but Bryan goes each night for the "famous" Coburg Bratwurst :-)

Everything is so pretty (almost magical) in the evening...

Lanterns over the river add to the fun "summer feeling"

Last weekend our small city of 70,000 people played host to over 300,000 people for the biggest festival of the year. The annual Sandkirchweih was in full swing. Each church has a summer celebration (a kirchweih), and this one is in celebration of St. Elizabeth's on Sand Strasse. People come from all over Germany to celebrate. The music is fantastic, the food is delicious, and of course the drinks are plentiful. It is really a neat observation to see such big crowds, but not so many problems - especially when so much alcohol is involved. It is a truly vibrant and fun atmosphere. Bryan and I usually take turns going with friends in the evening. It is fun to run into familiar faces - especially in the crowds. It makes it feel like a "homecoming of sorts" - especially for those originally from Bamberg (most everyone goes at least one night - adults, both young and old). A fantastic tradition - now 61 years strong!!