What is the German name for the maypole erected on May Day?

The German name for the maypole erected on May Day is Maibaum. The word combines Mai, meaning “May,” with Baum, meaning “tree.”

In Germany and Austria, the Maibaum tradition dates back to at least the 16th century. The pole is usually a decorated tree trunk or tree, raised on May 1 or on the preceding evening, depending on the region. Ceremonies often take place on a village green and are accompanied by music, dancing, food, and a local festival.

Bavaria is especially famous for its Maibaum traditions. Poles may be painted in blue and white and decorated with symbols representing local trades and industries. In some Bavarian villages, neighboring communities traditionally try to steal one another’s stored maypoles; recovering a stolen pole may involve providing beer and hosting a celebration.

Maibaum should not be confused with Tannenbaum, the German word for a fir tree or Christmas tree. The maypole is a springtime symbol, while Weihnachtsbaum refers specifically to a Christmas tree.