It’s been all quiet on the Cottbus front. Following Bicyclegate 2017, I’ve spent the past two weeks moving slowly and catching up on some R&R. Fortunately, the city was happy to provide local entertainment in the form of the 2017 Cottbus Stadtfest (“city fest”). For three days, our downtown and old market area were filled with carnival rides, international food, and musical performances.

Music ranged from an orchestra playing Disney songs, to German folkrock bands, to country western covers. I can honestly say I’d never really experienced Johnny Cash until hearing a German cover band perform “Ring of Fire” while the local line-dancing group performed on stage…all wearing cowboy boots and flannel. It was a bit surreal, to say the least.

Fortunately, the sun was shining and the days were beautiful — perfect weather for people watching and enjoying summer.

Also spotted this goblin…he’s made an appearance at every city event so far, usually dressed up in themed holiday garb. Unlike his Santa suit, this outfit doesn’t seem particularly fitting with the “Cottbus city festival” theme…unless he’s trying to say that Cottbus is a rundown troll in tattered clothing. Which may be the point?

I call this “spot the juxtaposition.”

And of course, there’s always an abundance of beverage options here in Germany. The winter glühwein vendors have repurposed their stands to sell tropical smoothies and cocktails. These drinks are enormously popular with the Germans, who walk around with giant cups of rainbow beverages contrasting the perpetually dour expressions.

Now that the Stadtfest is over and I’m back on my feet, I’m planning adventures in the area. In fact, I’ll be in Berlin soon for a weekend of movies, music, and good food. Just a couple days more…