The History of Frankfurt's Wäldchestag
The history of the Wäldchestag cannot be determined conclusively. In the absence of documentary evidence of its origin, there are two variations that are considered possible.
The history of the Wäldchestag cannot be determined conclusively. In the absence of documentary evidence of its origin, there are two variations that are considered possible.
Whitsun was the time that tradespeople traditionally staged their great festive processions and many artisan fairs came about because, until 1729, the Free Imperial City's administrative year ran from 1st May to 30th April. This meant that the new administrative year also marked the start of the guild leaders’ period of office, which was also a reason for prolonged celebrations and frivolity.
The third Whitsun holiday may also originate from the custom of grazing cattle for the first time after Whitsun, when the farmhands and maidservants also went outside to "eat, drink and be merry". Street names in Frankfurt mentioned in documents dating as far back as circa 1300, such as “Pfingstweide” (Whitsun pasture), are evidence today of this old Whitsun tradition.
