The motto of the fest is "Kiermes wéi fréier" - a fair like old times. The fair will take place on Sunday 18 August, after Assumption in accordance with tradition.
Shortly after sunrise, a garden in Girsterklaus is a flurry of activity in preparation for the fair. Theresa Baumgärtner, known for her cooking programmes on television, is opening up her home in the countryside, where she regularly holds cookery courses or events. She said Girsterklaus was a magical place and she is hoping to share this with people who have never visited the area. The Sunday after Assumption proved to be the perfect opportunity to reopen the village fair and organise a big celebration, remembering old times and inviting young people and families to enjoy the idyllic surroundings. Theresa has received support from the Rosport-Mompach municipality culture commission, and from Girsterklaus' parish priest.
Girsterklaus is known for the oldest Virgin Mary pilgrimage in the country. Pilgrims have visited the village since the Middle Ages, to join in the procession and mass. In the past, the Assumption of Mary was always celebrated in the small village - however, a proper fair on the Sunday following the religious festival hasn't occurred in many years. The current priest Luc Schreiner is thrilled that the tradition is being brought back.
For Theresa, reopening the fair will be a special and emotional moment. She will be responsible for desserts on the day of the fest, including a cake with prunes from her own orchard. Young and old are invited to come together on Sunday to play games, do workshops and learn more about the countryside surrounding Girsterklaus.
Video in Luxembourgish
