May the consumption of uncooked Danube fish offer any aid?
**Fisherman's Joust Returns to Ulm's Danube After a Two-Year Hiatus**
Ulm, Germany, will once again play host to the centuries-old Fisherman's Joust, also known as Fischerstechen, this summer. The event, which is steeped in tradition, will take place on the 18th and 20th of July on the Danube River, marking the return of this culturally significant water jousting tournament after a two-year break.
**Competitors and Competition**
A total of 15 pairs of jousters will compete in this year's Fisherman's Joust. The competitors will aim their 2.80-meter-long lances at each other as they navigate their small boats on the Danube. The drivers will try to steer the boats towards each other, creating a thrilling spectacle for the spectators gathered on the riverbank.
**Ticket Prices and Availability**
Pre-sale for tickets runs until Monday, July 14, 8 am, for the Fisherman's Joust. Standing tickets cost 10 euros, with reduced prices of 8 euros available for certain groups. For those seeking a more elevated view, tribune tickets are available for 20 euros, with reduced prices of 17 euros. Seats for July 20 are almost sold out, but tickets for July 18 are still available. Remaining tickets for both event days can be purchased at the box office.
**Ritual Approval Process**
The approval process for the Fisherman's Joust is a ritual procedure involving whitefishers, fishermaids, drummers, and jousters in traditional attire. The event kicks off with a drum performance, followed by a polite request for permission from the Mayor, Martin Ansbacher. This year, the Mayor did not partake in the fresh Danube fish offered during the approval process, instead choosing to donate it to the German Red Cross.
**A Living Link to the Past**
The Fisherman's Joust serves as a living link to Ulm's past, preserving a unique blend of sport, history, and local identity. The tradition dates back several centuries in Ulm and is deeply rooted in the town's identity as a river port along the Danube. It originated as a festive competition among local fishermen, symbolizing their skills, bravery, and camaraderie on the water.
**Cultural Significance**
The event is held regularly, often coinciding with local festivals, and serves as a testament to the region’s past, celebrating the fishing community that played a vital role in Ulm’s economy and culture. The Fisherman's Joust is not only an entertaining sporting event but also an embodiment of Ulm's historical connection to the Danube River and its fishing culture.
**A Tradition Worth Preserving**
Despite the Mayor's approval now being seen as a mere formality, the shipmen consider it important to continue this custom. The Fisherman's Joust is a cherished tradition that brings together the community, showcasing the region's rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring spirit.
The Fisherman's Joust in Ulm is more than just a sports event; it's a lens through which one can glimpse the region's rich history and vibrant lifestyle. As the tournament unfolds, the fashion-and-beauty of traditional attire adorns the competitors, denoted by whitefishers, fishermaids, and drummers. Adding to the cultural significance is the culinary experience, as food-and-drink offerings are often integrated into local festivals coinciding with the event. The tradition also has a strong connection to home-and-garden, as the tournament's roots lie in the town's identity as a river port along the Danube. Moreover, the fisherman's jousting tournament serves as a testament to the travel experiences of Ulm, inviting tourists from far and wide to witness this unique spectacle on the Danube River.
