Do you know the tradition of the fair tree?

Fairground tree

To some of you, this tree might look like a maypole. But in reality, it's a tree that's set up on the Saturday of the fair (in this case, in September). The setting up itself works just like a maypole: Large poles are used to gradually lower the tree into a hole. Often, the Burschenlied (Oh, old Burschenherrlichkeit) is sung after setting it up.

Boys singing

The fair tree is usually erected on the Saturday of the fair. Occasionally, the erection crew carries it through the town in a ceremonial procession, sometimes even transported by tractor. This procession is usually accompanied by a brass band. The tree remains up for several weeks after the festival until it is taken down.

Do you know the tradition of putting up a fairground tree?