a slice of Germany - Wittlich Pig Fest

"Legend has it that Wittlich was once a walled fortress constantly under attack by invaders. One evening a guard charged with locking the gate to the besieged town couldn't find the peg to secure the fortified door. All he could find was a large carrot to wedge in the door. Later, a pig ate the carrot, the gate opened and the enemy came in. After the enemy ransacked the town, the angry townspeople herded every pig into the town's market square and roasted them. Since then, the town of Wittlich has been known as the town of the pig burners."

The Wittlich (pronounced Vittlich in German) festival goes on for four whole days. We went on Sunday and it was over 30ºC, without a breeze to be had. It would have been pure misery if not for the delicious pork sandwiches, cold local brew and excitement going on all around us. A large portion of the town center is closed down from traffic, leaving it free for carnival style rides and games, and even a stage for musical performances. All of the restaurants, cafes and ice cream parlors spread their tables and chairs into the streets and food vendors set up their wares. Most notable of course, are the pigs roasting on an open fire! We had some of the 43rd pig that was roasted that weekend.

We wandered around for about an hour after eating and drinking, but it was difficult to shop the homemade goods because it was just so hot. Iris was feeling very rambunctious and somewhat grumpy, so we didn't stay for very long. Before we left, we stopped at the toy vendor and bought Iris a couple of beautifully made wooden toys. We definitely enjoyed the experience and look forward to going again next year!