And because we’re in panto season let’s celebrate the half-century of the trail marking its origins, the Grimms’ German Fairy Tale route at 50… oh yes it is.
Now panto might be one of those traditions as British as, em, poinsettia (Mexico), the nativity scene (Italy), Christmas Trees and Advent calendars (German).
But they are of course largely cribbed from Teuton tales.
Fairytale Germany
You don’t believe us (well, do) but for those naysayers the German Fairy Tale Route will put you right.
The German Fairy Tale Route is rightfully one of the country’s most famous holiday routes.
Stretching 600kms from southern Germany to Bremen, with a final detour to Buxtehude, near Hamburg.
Your journey will begin in the city of Hanau near Frankfurt, the birthplace of the brothers Grimm and you will travel through 50 towns.
Immerse yourself in the world of among others Little Red Riding Hood in Alsfeld, The Pied Piper of Hamelin.
And the Snow White museum in the spa town of Bad Wildungen.
And, get this, Cinderella’s home in Polle, the Snow White town of Bergfreiheit.
Or take a guided tour like those children of Hamelin with the Pied Piper himself.
Fifty years of fun
The 50-year fun will run from next April with a variety of events across the towns.
Now as well as our favourites you can discover some German goodies you might never have heard of.
Such as Doctor Ironbeard in Hann town hall (you’ve won us over already), the travelling Baroque doctor.
The central birthday celebration across August 16-17 at Sababurg Zoo, close to the castle said to be the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty.
Brilliant Bremen
Now you’ll want to learn more about the Town Musicians of Bremen.
And one of the best statues you’ll find anywhere the stacked animals podium in the town centre.
Now quirky fairytales, fun and frothy and fatty food is the essence of what makes for a good German party.
And every town boasts its own legend with Hamburg which you can attach on to your trail boasting its own Hummel water-carrier figure, identifiable to any Hamburger anywhere in the world.
So whether you take in a panto this season or not turn your mind to the fun you can have next year in Germany.
With the Grimms’ German Fairy Tale Route at 50… oh yes it is.
