The Final All-Allerscheenste of Mainz?
In the heart of Mainz, a city steeped in history and tradition, the Rhineland Carnival unfolds each year, a vibrant spectacle leading up to Lent. One of its most cherished events, the Meenzer Fasnacht, has been a staple of the city's culture for centuries. Originating in the pubs and wine bars of Mainz, this lively celebration is marked by singing, dancing, and a unique brand of satire that targets authorities and the ruling class.
However, the landscape of the Meenzer Fasnacht has seen some changes. The Woistubb, a popular location for the festivities, no longer exists, and the cost of a glass of wine has significantly increased. The exact status of some traditional events, such as the Allerscheenste sessions and the Aller-Allerscheenste, remains unclear. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on these events, it is recommended to check local news sources or official carnival websites.
One constant figure in the Mainz Carnival is Johannes Bersch, a trained painter and varnisher who completed a technician course at the School of Design in Stuttgart. Active in Fastnacht for 33 years without interruption, Bersch has held various roles, including ballet dancer, speaker, musician, and inventor of the Bischofsheim fool's cage. His most recent persona is "Moguntia," a character he debuted in 2018.
Another influential figure in the Mainz Carnival is René Pschierer, better known as the "Bajazz" of the Mainz Carnival Association. A master of the fool's art, Pschierer expressed concern about the lack of young talent and the potential end of the Allerscheenste sessions. The Allerscheenste, a traditional economic carnival celebration, is temporarily suspended for its 40th campaign, but may continue if helpers are found.
The Aller-Allerscheenste, a parody of the self-righteous order flood in traditional carnival associations, was first crowned in 1996. Notable Aller-Allerscheenste include Herbert Bonewitz, Otto Dürr, Margit Sponheimer, Ruzdi Henkel, Hilde Bachmann, and Dieter Wenger.
The Wittlicher Altstadtsaenger, a carnival group from Wittlich, and Peter Krawietz, a jester, are other colourful characters that add to the rich tapestry of the Mainz Carnival. The Wittlicher Altstadtsaenger sing about contemporary issues in a nostalgic, self-ironic, and loving manner, while Krawietz, as the clown of the Närrischen Stammtisch, a group within the Allerscheenste, observes the folly of the world and holds up a mirror to society, reminding us not to judge others without recognizing ourselves.
As the curtain falls on the 2024 Fastnacht campaign, preparations are already underway for the 2026 event. The Allerscheenste is planning to elect the 40th Aller-Allerscheenste in the campaign 2025, ensuring that the tradition of satire and celebration continues in Mainz. The clown will once again take centre stage, reminding us of the importance of laughter, community, and the power of the fool's art.
- The 'lifestyle' of the Meenzer Fasnacht has evolved over time, with some traditional venues like the Woistubb no longer in existence and the cost of food and drink increasing.
- 'Home-and-garden' decked with carnival decorations and adorned with parade floats create a vibrant landscape for the Mainz Carnival each year.
- 'Relationships' and camaraderie are central to the carnival, as seen in the interactions among jesters like Peter Krawietz and the Närrischen Stammtisch, and carnival groups such as the Wittlicher Altstadtsaenger.
- When it comes to 'fashion-and-beauty', the Mainz Carnival offers a unique spectacle, with elaborate costumes, masks, and satirical displays that challenge societal norms during the festivities.
