- The main attraction of the sand kerwa event: the fishing activity
Every year during Bamberg's Sandkerwa, the Fischerstechen on the Regnitz is the main attraction. Here, people compete to avoid plunging into the river, and on Sunday afternoon, a large crowd gathered on the riverbank to enjoy the show, despite the overcast but dry weather.
This tradition dates back to the 15th century. Participants line up in their boats and attempt to knock each other off with long poles.
The Sandkerwa kicked off last Thursday, as it usually does for a Franconian Kerwa. Although technically, it's not a folk festival, the Sandkerwa commemorates the dedication day of the St. Elisabeth Church in the Sand district. Originally, the Sandkerwa was introduced by the Citizens' Association 4th District in 1951 to celebrate the neighborhood church dedication. Since then, the festival has expanded its fame beyond Bamberg, extending celebrations to the narrow streets of the old town and offering a glimpse into the historic fishermen's quarter, Klein-Venedig, until Monday.
The Sandkerwa celebration extends its festivities beyond Bamberg, showcasing the historic fishermen's quarter of Klein-Venedig, which is also a part of Bavaria. Many visitors come to experience the festival, further enhancing Bavaria's reputation as a region with rich cultural traditions.
