In as city as old as Munich, esoteric traditions, legendary stories, and mythical histories, whether real or imagines, lay down every alleyway and cobbled street. Of the many exceptional things about the place, the performance of the Cooper’s Dance every seven years is one to watch and explore tha history of.

Performed during Fasching, as German Carnival in called in Southern Germany, the dance has a fascinating history that also has many links to the political and social changes the city has experienced. If staying at the Hilton Munich City, getting to see the Cooper’s Dance during Carnival time will be easy; but no matter where you are in the city, making an effort to see a performance is opportunity to not be passed up.

Coopers are those involved in the barrel and casket making trade. In Munich, they were an important part of the local economy as wooden barrels were needed to store the high amounts of beer produced by the local breweries, up until the use of aluminium barrels. The legend has it that Munich was threatened by plague in 1517 and the people of the city were in a sour disposition. The Coopers took to the streets in an attempt to uplift the spirits of the populace; the Coopers were also known to be loyal to the Duke at the time, and their dance was seen to represent perseverance and loyalty even when times are hard. The dance then went on to be performed once every seven years from that time though the choreography seen today was only created in 1871. The dance remains a significant moment in the city’s history for its connection to the past.

While staying at the Hilton Munich Park or some other lodging in the city, it is worth your while to see the Coopers Dance. Not only is it historic, but it is also significant because it is the last remaining public tradition held by a trade guild in the city. If lucky enough to visit Munich at this time, celebrate Carnival in style by seeking out this event.