On Saturday November 1, the United German Hungarians and friends gathered in Warminster at the Vereinigung Erzgebirge to celebrate the 2025 Kirchweih! Our girls arrived early to dress in the traditional beautiful Banater Tracht. Our Mothers, Aunts, and Omis work diligently for weeks to make sure the skirts are pleated and the shawls are ironed and ready.
Many hands work to prepare us for a Kirchweih. On Thursday, October 30 the final preparations were made in Ambler to assemble and decorate the Strauss. We shared snacks and dinner, beer, wine, and whiskey and of course some sweets. Our helpers made quick work of the ribbon tying so that everyone in attendance gets to wear the Sträussleins (small rosemary sprigs) over their heart.
As guests greeted each other and made their way to their seats, our Heimatklänge struck up the famous HK Polka and folks rushed to the dance floor. Finishing touches and pins were set on our Tracht. A few numbers later, Joe Reiter announced “Ladies and gentleman, your 2025 Kirchweih group!” and the Kirchweihmarsch was played as we proudly marched onto the floor.
President Janet Malofiy welcomed all and the Cultural Group, children and adults alike performed a combined dance. More performances entertained the crowd throughout the night. The band entertained us with our favorites, but the dance floor was the most full for the traditional Kirchweih Waltz. Anyone who wished could take a turn dancing with the beloved Strauss!
A dinner of Hungarian Wurst or Leberkäse was prepared and enjoyed. Before the night was over, the Kirchweih group entered once again. Joey Reiter and Stevie Paul spoke together telling of history and the memories of our traditions before the Strauss was raffled off.
Congratulations to this year’s winners, Bobbi-Ann and Jerry Lineman! Along with the Strauss and the basket of cheer and a year of good luck, they enjoyed a dance with each member of the Cultural Group including their grandchildren Kurt, Kirsten and Will. I overheard Mr. Lineman say
“for many years we’ve been hoping to be the winners!”
Congrats to the Lineman family!
Kirchweih is an event full of traditions. Some date back to our homeland of the Banat and surrounding areas. Others we have developed and continue here in America. I think this is why the Kirchweih is one of my favorite events throughout the year.
Thank you to all of the hands who helped prepare our wonderful Kirchweih and for all who spent their Saturday night with us. See you next year!
Don’t forget to plant your rosemary in early spring in a nice sunny spot!
Werner Fricker III
Editor’s Note: This year the rosemary used for the large bouquet, the centerpieces at the event, and the pieces for each attendee was donated by Joe & Susi Hartmann, Nick Adams & Morgan Schulz, and Werner Fricker III.