You'll find a selection of lively and interesting events, both large and small, in the spa resort of Bad Wiessee and the Tegernsee Valley. Join in the celebrations on JohanniTag (midsummer's day) when, following old customs, bonfires are lit on the mountain tops. "Dance in the May" - maypoles are set up in all the towns and villages around Lake Tegernsee.Johannifeuer (Midsummer's Day Fire)
In accordance with old Teutonic customs, the Summer solstice is celebrated around Lake Tegernsee with music, dance and song. Bonfires are still lit on the tops of the surrounding mountains. According to popular belief, the Johannifeuer is said to ward off demons. Johannitag was originally celebrated on 24 June, the day commemorating the birth of John the Baptist, and the bonfires were lit the night before. Nowadays, the solstice bonfire celebrations often start on the evening of the 21 June, the official start of summer.Maypole traditions
Maypole traditions can be traced back to Teutonic and Slavic customs. These traditions are still very much alive in Old Bavaria. Rural communities compete to see who can set up the largest and most beautifully decorated maypole. The tree for the pole used to be felled on Walpurgis Night (the eve of 1 May). Today, it still takes the skill and strength of around 20 men to lift up the tree trunk, which can be up to 30 metres high. In Bad Wiessee the setting up of the maypole is accompanied by a small fair with music and dance.