We show up in Rothenburg and they threw a festival for us

Before I start on the festival I have confirmation that Cindy finally talked someone to death. I have proof, see the photo below.    

Okay now back to the festival and a few pics of the walled city of Rothenburg.  Can't talk about a walled city without showing you the wall.    

           Here is Cindy climbing up to the guard path on the top of the wall. 

        

   

           Here is a photo of the guard walkway along the wall.

Now on to the festival.  It was just luck that we booked our stay in Rothenburg the weekend it celebrated Imperial City Days.  They were celebrating their right to become a City State (or their own Kingdom).  This was given to them by King Rudolph of Habsburk in 1274. The locals go all out for the celebration.  They dress in period costumes and use musical instruments from that time period.

After dark they have a torch parade that starts at the main entrance to the old city.  They march carrying lit torches to the Market Square in the center of the old city.  The Mayor reads the proclamation from King Rudolph. They set off fireworks and then retreat back to the pubs and bars to celebrate.

     Some of the Knights carrying torches to Market Square (this wouldn't go over to big in some US cities).

     Other locals dressed in period costumes with their torches.

     At the end of the parade all the spectators make their way to Market Square to hear the Mayor and watch the fireworks.

    We were lucky our hotel was right near Market Square. So we got to see the parade and fireworks without leaving the front step.