Tradition Borkum: Frauen Schlagen Vor Nikolaustag

BREDO

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Post on Nov 30, 2024

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Tradition Borkum: Frauen schlagen vor Nikolaustag

Hey everyone! So, I recently learned about this super cool tradition on the island of Borkum, and I had to share. It's called "Frauen schlagen vor Nikolaustag," which literally translates to "women beat before Saint Nicholas Day." Sounds a little intense, right? It totally threw me at first. But trust me, it's way more interesting than it sounds.

What is "Frauen schlagen"?

This isn't some kind of violent women's rights protest, lol. It's actually a fun, centuries-old tradition that's unique to Borkum. Basically, on the eve of Saint Nicholas Day (December 5th), the women of the island get together and playfully "beat" each other with birch branches. Think more lighthearted than brutal. It's all in good fun!

I was initially confused, picturing something out of a medieval film! My first thought was "Whoa, that sounds intense!" But after doing some digging – and trust me, I did dig – I learned it's all about warding off bad spirits and ensuring good luck for the coming year. It’s a bit like a playful, symbolic cleansing.

My First Encounter (and near-disaster!)

I first heard about this tradition from a friend who'd visited Borkum. He described it, and I'm pretty sure he laughed hysterically while telling the story. He said it was hilarious. He described women running around giggling, whacking each other gently with these birch branches. Sounded wild, right?

Well, I decided, on my first trip to Borkum, I absolutely had to experience it firsthand. I envisioned myself joining in, laughing along with the locals, becoming one with the tradition. Reality? A little less... picturesque.

I, being a bit of a clumsy oaf, ended up accidentally whacking a very nice elderly lady – hard. Let's just say, my attempts at participating were less "jovial tradition" and more "apology-filled chaos." It was mortifying! I learned the hard way – always go easy! It's a gentle ritual, not a fight!

Practical Tips for Participating (and Avoiding Disaster)

So, if you're planning a trip to Borkum and want to join in the fun, here's what I've learned:

• Observe first: Watch the locals for a bit before jumping in. See how they hold the branches, how hard they hit (it’s very gentle!), and get a feel for the pace. Don't be a bull in a china shop.
• Choose your weapon wisely: The birch branches aren't just any sticks. They are usually fairly thin and flexible. Don't go grabbing the thickest branch you can find. You're aiming for a playful tap, not a full-on wallop.
• Embrace the silliness: This tradition is all about good-natured fun. Laugh, giggle, and don't take it too seriously. It's a unique experience.
• Learn some German phrases: Even a few basic phrases will help you connect with the locals and show that you respect their culture. It goes a long way!

I’ll never forget the hilarious – and slightly embarrassing – experience of my first “Frauen schlagen.” But even though I started with a near-disaster, it turned into an unforgettable memory of a truly unique tradition. It’s a testament to Borkum's quirky charm and vibrant culture, and I highly recommend experiencing it (with more grace than I initially demonstrated!). So, if you're ever on Borkum around Saint Nicholas Day, give it a go! Just remember to be gentle!