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Unruly Scenes at Lake Constance: A Modern-day Wild West

Lustful longing for the Wild West along Lake Constance

Lawless Territory Unleashed on Lake Constance
Lawless Territory Unleashed on Lake Constance

Lake Constance's West-inspired Frontier Fantasy - Unruly Scenes at Lake Constance: A Modern-day Wild West

The Americana fair, a celebrated event for Western fans across Europe, is once again drawing crowds in Friedrichshafen. Over 50,000 visitors are expected between Wednesday and Sunday, with attendees travelling from all corners of Germany and beyond.

At the heart of the fair lies Dirk Trautmann's truck bar, a popular spot for Western fans to immerse themselves in their passion. The fair features a spectacle of riding shows, with 460 horses and 650 cattle taking centre stage.

For those seeking the authentic Western lifestyle, the fair offers a wealth of inspiration. Many visitors find themselves drawn to the clothing, accessories, and even cowboy hats on display. Real cowboy hats, according to Klaus Inderfurth, a renowned cowboy hat designer, are made of beaver hair, sometimes mixed with rabbit hair. Inderfurth's creations start at 540 euros and, with proper care, can last for 20 years. However, Inderfurth warns against leaving cowboy hats in hot cars, as the sweatband, made of leather, can shrink and become brittle.

Gunnar Schneider and his wife Esther, who have travelled from Dresden, embody the Western spirit. They have a passion for Western riding and own a ranch in their homeland. For them, the Western lifestyle is like "whiskey, beautiful landscapes, and pure freedom." Despite never having visited the USA, the Schneiders have been fans of the American way of life for 25 years.

The fair is a testament to the sense of community among like-minded people. Dirk Trautmann, the operator of the truck bar, emphasises this, stating that the fair is a place where people can come together and share their passion.

The Americana fair is more than just a gathering of Western enthusiasts; it's a celebration of freedom, unbridledness, and American flair. A saloon named "Yellowstone" reflects this, paying homage to popular Western series like the one about the Dutton family in Montana.

This year, more than 300 exhibitors from 16 nations are participating in the fair, showcasing their wares and contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. As the fair continues, thousands of visitors will continue to live out their Western dreams, finding inspiration and camaraderie in the heart of Germany.

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