Maypole installation by Winkl fire brigade

Maypole installation by Winkl fire brigade at the fire house in Winkl/St. Gilgen.

A maypole is a specially prepared and decorated tree trunk which, in this area, is installed the evening before 1st May. During installation process there is often a performance by the local folklore group. Part of the tradition is for a rival group to try to steal the maypole before it is erected. In the night before the installation it is, therefore, usually very well guarded.