German Students To Bring Traditional 'Weiberfastnacht' Celebration To Andrew HS

German students at Victor J. Andrew High School are excited to announce a special cultural activity taking place this Thursday, February 12, in honor of the German Karneval season. Students will participate in a school-friendly adaptation of Weiberfastnacht, or “Women’s Carnival,” a centuries-old tradition that marks the beginning of the week-long Karneval (Mardi Gras) festivities in Germany.

Traditionally, Weiberfastnacht involves women symbolically taking over towns and playfully cutting off men’s neckties. To bring this vibrant culture to the classroom in a fun and appropriate way, German students will wear paper ties attached to their backpacks. Throughout the day, students are invited to collect as many ties as possible by simply pulling them from their peers' backpacks during passing periods.

“Students have been learning about Karneval traditions in class, and this activity allows them to experience the spirit of the celebration firsthand,” said Erika Lupacchino, German teacher and German Club sponsor. “It’s a wonderful way to bring a bit of German culture into our school day while encouraging respectful and lighthearted interaction among students.”

Staff and students are encouraged to ask participating students about the tradition to learn more about German history and the significance of the Karneval season.