Fasnacht

Fasnacht is the pre-lenten burning of Old Man Winter. It occurs on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday and is likened to Mardi Gras. It has its roots in the Swiss Winterfest.

Saturday afternoon features food, beverages, and open mic music in the Star Band (Red) Hall, a buffet at the Hutte restaurant, and browsing in the local shops. Masks from previous Fasnachts are featured at the Fasnacht Mask Museum. At 8:30 p.m., a parade featuring large, often frightening, and quite artistic masks travels from the Red Hall to the Community Hall where the costumes are judged and the square dance begins. At midnight the efigy of Old Man Winter is cut down from the ceiling of the Community Hall, carried on the shoulders of the celebrants to the bonfire outside, and burned to signal the end of Winter.

The warming effect is not immediate and visitors should wear plenty of clothing so they can enjoy the outdoor activities.

For more information about this event, visit www.helvetiawv.com