Kirwa
"Kirwa" - Cultural heritage
A tradition that is carefully maintained in Amberg-Sulzbacher is the Kirwa. In the Land of 100 Kirwa Festivals, the people of Amberg-Sulzbacher look forward to "their" hometown festival every year.
The tradition of the Oberpfalz Kirwa has survived in a uniquely diverse way in our region. The “trachten” (traditional clothing) are colourful; the rituals that have been passed down through old traditions are carefully followed.
There are even special songs for the Kirwa, the "Schnodahipfln". The cheeky rhyming songs tell of desire and love, work and hardship, and are bursting with the very energy of life. And no Kirwa can be without the "Baierische" (a traditional dance). Court cases have even been fought over this complicated dance. When, for example, the brass band wasn't able to play the Baierische as "crisply" as it was supposed to be played. The rhythm changes suddenly and quickly in a Baierische. Only experts are able to lead their partners smoothly over the dance floor. The Baierische is not meant for dancing, but for living!
Part of a Kirwa...
The Kirwa tree
It is the symbol of every Kirwa. The bark is carved and wreaths are tied and beautifully decorated.
The church service
A special Kirwa service is held before every Kirwa.
The Kirwa couples
Where a Kirwa tree is "danced out", couples are needed. From the age of 16 and if at least one of each couple comes from the village/parish, you can actively dance along.
Die Tracht (the traditional costume)
You can see all kinds of traditional costumes, but every now and then you also see the established classic: black suit trousers, white shirt and hat for the boys.
The beer
Beer is a must at Bavarian festivals. This also applies to the Kirwa.
Bratwürste (the sausages)
Bratwurst and beer - an inseparable duo.
Die Köichln
No cake counter should be without them.
The music
Hearty and danceable.
