The Pommerscher Verein is again sponsoring its annual German style Karnival or Mardi Gras called Fasching. This Fasching Dance/Celebration will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2011 from 2-6 p.m. at the Rib River Ballroom, Marathon. Music and entertainment will be provided by the Jerry Schneider Orchestra from Chilton. Jerry is well known for his German music and songs.

For this exciting evening, the hall will be decorated with a Fasching theme. Though it is optional, attendees are encouraged to dress in costumes. It will be a fun filled evening with a costume parade, dancing, prizes and surprises. German-style food, plate lunches, sandwiches, and beverages will also be available for purchase throughout the evening.

Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door and may be purchased from members of the Verein or from the following businesses: In Wausau – Jack at Rib River Ballroom, Jerry’s Music, and Wausau Music Center; in Merrill – Drew’s Piggly Wiggly, Dave’s County Market, and Courtside Furniture.

Like in Germany, the two main purposes of our Fasching is to celebrate this “Foolish Season” with (1) lots of merrymaking and feasting prior to the somber Lenten season and (2) to dress in outlandish and nonsensical costumes to drive out “Demon Winter” because it needs to be driven out before spring can arrive. (We are told that sometimes grotesque and nonsensical costumes….and loud noises help to accomplish this).

The women will reign at this year’s Fasching. And as is the tradition in some German communities, women will show their power by cutting off men’s neckties. Thus, men should be prepared and wear their oldest and ugliest neckties. The “Frau” claiming the most necktie stubs at the end of the day will receive an award.