Pennsylvania’s tallest maypole is coming back to South Street as the 13th annual Maifest by Brauhaus Schmitz returns Saturday May 2, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Philadelphia’s German restaurant and beer hall will close down South Street at the 700 block for an all-day, all ages celebration that will feature authentic German culture, music, food, and of course, plenty of German beer.
“Brauhaus Schmitz proudly brings this authentic German tradition to the heart of Philadelphia’s South Street for an unforgettable day of fun and merriment,” said Brauhaus Schmitz owner Doug Hager. “Our block party has become a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike, and we can’t wait to celebrate with South Street and our community. Come raise a liter with us under the giant Maypole.”
The festivities will include Pennsylvania’s largest maypole, performances by Die Heimatklange Band and United German Hungarian Dance group, Liter Lift Competition, Pig Roast, face painting, flower crowns, keg tapping and games.
The all-day outdoor block party is no charge to attend, with food and drink pay as you go. VIP tickets are also available for $100 and include food, drink and access to the Brauer Bund, with seating, a private bathroom and an extensive German Food Buffet.For more information, visit www.brauhausschmitz.com.
The event will be held rain or shine, so mark your calendars and join Brauhaus Schmitz for a day of German-inspired fun! For more information, visit www.brauhausschmitz.com or follow Brauhaus Schmitz on social media for event updates and announcements.
The music will be from 2 to 6 p.m. with the sounds of traditional German oompah songs as well as party hits performed by Brauhaus regulars Die Heimatklange Band.
The United German Hungarian Dance group will perform traditional folk dances around the maypole.
At 1 p.m., 20 of Philadelphia’s strongest men and women compete to see who can hold a liter of beer up the longest and secure a spot in the national championship in New York City.
The annual keg tapping will be at 1:30 p.m. Meanwhile, there will be an extensive selection of 10 different German beers, including refreshing lagers, flavorful wheat beers and crisp pilsners and cider.