The third Monday in April is Sechseluten here in Zurich. It is a celebration of the end of winter that culminates with the burning of a giant snowman. The length of time between when the fire is lit and when his explosives-filled head ignites is an indication of how much longer winter will last. The parade portion of the festivites are a chance for the Guilds of Zurich to dress up in traditional costume and strut through the streets. Guilds were traditionally profession-based organizations such as the masons or the barbers but have eventually become social groups that often are tied to a specific family. Chizzy is in Ireland for a few days, so I ventured out on my own to get these gripping photos.
Here's the doomed snowman the day before the burning. At this point he is still pretty smug about being the center of attention and having an armed guard.
The parade on Sunday was the child version of the parade the next day and the children threw candy into the crowds.
All boys must serve in the Swiss Army for a year or so after high school. These isn't the army but I like to throw a little eduction in once in a while.
Some upper class snobs.
Even though they would have their moment in the sun the very next day, some Guilds still couldn't trust the children to get the job done right.
This guy was insiting that bicycles with same size wheels were still "just a fad".
It was at this moment in the festival that the snowman finally understood why his friends always snickered when he bragged about his internal organs mainly consisting of explosives.
Yikes. By my watch, it took about 19 minutes for his head to explode. I have no idea how that compares to other years, but it started raining right after this.
The area of town where this all took place is called Bellevue. Like we never even left home.
Awesome post! The pictures look really crisp. The one with the bicycles looks professional.
Shelbster, April 20, 2005 01:54 AM:Poor little snowman! It seems kind of sad. I agree with J, the pics are great.
Bryan, April 20, 2005 02:36 PM:I’ve since found out that 19 minutes is a pretty long burn time and is supposed to signify how nice the summer will be, not how much longer winter will be. The shorter the burn, the better the summer so I guess we are in for a bad one.
Don't be sad, Shelbs. Even though I personified the snowman he was really just a bundle of straw and stuff. He really didn’t have any friends or a smug attitude.
Another great GA reference from Bern. You might find it interesting my favorite lunch spot is named Berner Cafe. I think of you every time I walk in.