Weiberfastnacht (Karnival for women)

As Americans are starting to celebrate Mardi Gras (which is different than Karnival) in Germany, the Karnival (Fastnacht or Fasching) starts as Weiberfastnacht, a Karnival for women. I try to bring this into Second Life to educate people about this tradition. 

Weiberfastnacht takes place on February 08, 2024. Weiberfastnacht is a popular day for women in Germany during the Karnival season. Among other established customs, on that day women cut off the ties of men, which are seen as a symbol of men's status. The men wear the stumps of their ties and get a little kiss as compensation. Depending on the region, the day is also known as a "Fat Thursday", which refers to the consumption of fatty foods at Karnival. Weiberdonnnerstag marks the start of the street carnival and always takes place on Thursday before Ash Wednesday.

The men here at the Basement Club agreed to have their neckties cut in exchange for a little kiss. They said it was a fair trade.

But beware: If the tie wearer has not agreed to the cut, there may be an infringement of property. Only some people who wear a tie at Shrovetide are also immediately jeckisch and benevolent on the way.

The Basement will celebrate Mardi Gras and Fastnacht until Fat Tuesday and then we will go right into February 14, 2024, Valentine's Day on Wednesday. Wednesdays will be a special Blues Night starting at 4PM SLT. Come on over and wear your favorite costumes and they don't have to be the traditional Mardi Gras colored ones with feathers, they can be any costume.

All other DJ sets start at 6PM M, T Th, and F with a variety of music. No matter what traditions you celebrate or what language you speak, music is for everybody. Smile be happy and leave the worries behind. At least for a few hours.

Why do we celebrate Karnival? 

Karneval ('Carnival') is a very old tradition in Germany, which was originally celebrated to scare away winter spirits. After many months of frost, the old Germans were tired of winter. To spook the winter spirits, people wore scary masks. They also sang and danced in the streets to welcome spring. This is much different than Mardi Gras, which is celebrated at the same time but based on religious beliefs.

Depending in what region you are in Germany you can either say "Alaaf" or "Helau" to wish people a happy beginning of Spring.