Colors of Kaiserslautern - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Kaiserslautern is an old city that has survived through many epochs. During its long history, the city hasn’t changed much in size, so it is still not very big. Perhaps, this is the reason why the atmosphere of peace and serenity reigns here. It feels like time has stopped in Kaiserslautern, so it is the right place to forget about all troubles and relax. Despite the fact that it is considered a tourist city, Kaiserslautern is great not only for relaxing but also for working and studying. It is a large scientific and industrial center of the region.

The population of the city deserves a mention. Approximately a hundred thousand people live in Kaiserslautern, with Europeans being the majority. Additionally, roughly fifty thousand NATO soldiers live in the city and its neighborhoods. There is an explanation to this fact – in the 50s of the previous century, Kaiserslautern became the largest military base of the United States outside the country. By the way, foreigners often call Kaiserslautern “K-city” because the original name is quite hard to pronounce.

There is an interesting local legend, the so-called “Pike Saga” that tells about an incredible catch of Emperor Frederick the Great. In 1230, the emperor was fishing and caught a big pike. He ringed the pike and put it back into the water. 267 years later, a gigantic pike was caught in the same area. The fish weighed more than a hundred kilograms and was six meters long. It is believed that this is exactly the same pike mentioned in the legend. Actually, residents of Kaiserslautern like the river predator fish. In 2001, for the anniversary of Kaiserslautern’s city status (725 years), there was a contest for the best drawing of pike. Everyone was welcome to participate in the contest. Eventually, roughly 200 works depicting the fantastic fish were exhibited throughout the city. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

In general, local people are very friendly and cheerful. They will always help tourists and show the right way to them. Sometimes, they can even tell interesting stories about their home city. The crime rate is very low in Kaiserslautern, so it is safe to walk on the city’s streets even late at night, visiting local cafes and bars. Despite being patient, local people have fun all night long from time to time. They often celebrate wins of the local football team this way.

It is a well-known fact that Kaiserslautern FC was the champion of Germany. Quite an interesting fact – this is the smallest city, which football club became the champion of the country. Currently, “The Red Devils” play games every Saturday with an opponent. This is the time when the streets of Kaiserslautern become empty. If you like football, it is highly recommended to visit these games and enjoy an incredible spirit of competition.

Perhaps, American soldiers who do military service at the base were the reason why Halloween has become such a popular holiday in Kaiserslautern. It is traditionally celebrated at the end of October. This is the time when numerous fair trades appear in the city, shops become filled with products for this holiday, and local people dress like monsters and witches. Parks and restaurants in Kaiserslautern host interesting thematic parties. Concerts and performances have become an essential part of the celebration. The local zoo offers an interesting quest, the main aim of which is to escape a meeting with witches and ghosts. As a rule, the quest ends with a festive standing dinner with traditional food of the All Hollows Day.

Just like many European cities, Kaiserslautern hosts a number of grandiose Christmas celebrations. The whole city looks like a fairytale place because of holiday decorations, old buildings, and light snow. Traditionally, Schillerplatz and the area close to Stiftskirche become the location of Christmas markets that offer various souvenirs and products. Handcraft master-classes, exhibitions of ethnic artworks, and special holiday performances on an open-air scene have become an essential part of the holiday. Numerous cafes and restaurant offer a special Christmas menu.

That being said, Lautrer Kerwe Festival remains one of the most grandiose events in not only the city but also the region. This is an annual open-air event that is held for ten days in May and October. Musicians and bands perform on the scene, numerous kiosks sell delicious food, and souvenir stalls and attractions are always crowded. There are less popular music and entertainment events, for example, the ones held at The Palatinate Gallery of Art and Kammgarn. The Palatinate Theater also hosts theatre plays and opera performances.