Most HHS students take a language, whether that be Spanish, Italian, French, Latin, or German, and one of the most important parts of learning a language is also familiarizing yourself with the history, culture, and customs of the country whose language you are learning.

German students at HHS learn about Karneval, an event held in Germany that is equivalent to the Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans which include large pre-Lenten parties and parades. The German Honor Society, advised by Sviatlana Khalpukova, decided to recreate the event in the choir room on March 3 to simulate the experience for fellow students. All students who were interested in participating in the event were permitted to attend, whether they took German or not.

“There are three different words in German for ‘Carnival’: Karneval, Fasching and Fastnacht,” Khalpukova said. “Although all three refer to the same pre-Lenten observance, each is known for its own history of traditions and customs depending on the region in the German-speaking world. Therefore,  it is quite challenging  to keep track of carnival customs.”

The event was organized by GHS president Andrew Fox, vice president Alana Staskiewicz, secretary Megan Stanton, and treasurer Jeff Cowen who decided to follow the so-called Büttenreden tradition that began in Cologne which consists of a carnival tradition of humorous and rhyming speeches. The Büttenrede takes its name from the barrel-shaped podium, or die Bütt, where the speaker stands to give his or her Büttenrede.

“AP students and I prepared several funny stories and speeches in German to share with others,” Khalpukova said. “This idea produced so much excitement in the group that after having a discussion in German, everyone proceeded to spontaneously share the most humorous moments from their family and friends’ and their own lives in English.”

GHS members brought all different types of foods and drinks to share with participants. They spent the afternoon after school eating, talking, and sharing funny jokes and stories to mimic how the event is held in Germany. In addition, the students played modern German music to immerse participants in even more German culture.

The event was enjoyed by all participants, and will likely be repeated in the future.

“At the conclusion of the event, many participants expressed their gratitude for having been a part of this experience, which was incredibly rewarding for the event organizers and all the students who contributed to the success of the Carnival celebration,” Khalpukova said.