Record sum for a childhood dream: 11,110 euros for the Bajazz position - Record-Breaking €11,110 Bid Secures a Childhood Dream in Germany's Historic Parade

Julian Herrmann has broken records by paying €11,110 to become this year's Bajazz in Herbstein's famous Rose Monday parade. The 4-5 hour event, rooted in centuries-old folk traditions, will see him lead the leaping procession through the town. His childhood fascination with the role drove him to win the intense auction last week.

The tradition of the Bajazz-Leapdance-Parade began in the 17th century, brought to Herbstein by Tyrolean stonemasons. Over time, it blended Celtic harvest dances, medieval minuets, and 19th-century carnival customs. The Romantic era added acrobatic leaps and satirical performances, shaping the event into what it is today.

Herrmann first encountered the Bajazz as a child in kindergarten. The spectacle left a lasting impression, sparking a lifelong dream to take on the role. Decades later, he entered a fierce bidding war for the honour, setting an initial limit of €8,500. But as the auction stretched to 90 minutes, his excitement pushed the final bid to €11,110—a new record.

The parade on Rosenmontag starts around 2 PM and winds through Herbstein until late afternoon. Along the route, the Bajazz and his six accompanying couples pause frequently to perform the Aufspielen—a lively dance demanding stamina and skill. Each stop also serves as a chance to collect donations from spectators. The funds raised this year will support the Fastnachtsvereinigung Herbstein, ensuring the tradition's costumes and customs endure.

Despite its popularity, the role remains exclusively male. Tradition bars women from becoming the Bajazz or joining the procession's couples. Herrmann now hopes for clear skies on Rose Monday, the climax of Foaselt, so the celebrations can proceed without interruption.

The €11,110 paid by Herrmann will help preserve Herbstein's unique leapdance heritage. The parade, with its demanding four-hour route, tests both the Bajazz and his troupe's endurance. Organisers and participants alike now await the weather's cooperation for a successful celebration.