Sunshine, chocolate-covered fruit-on-a-stick and all the fun of the fair
As soon as July approaches, the whole Gang starts looking forward to the Rheinkirmes funfair in Düsseldorf – a major highlight of our year. Last year’s inclement weather failed to stop us, so this time the sun put its best foot forward. Before the fun could begin, teamwork was the order of the day, and following a productive afternoon of brainstorming and discussion, nothing was going to get in the way of a team experience filled with action, laughter and enjoyment, so we ventured out into the bright sunlight, ready to try out everything the fairground could throw at us.
Four million visitors and 300+ attractions covering an area bigger than the nearby Phantasialand amusement park – the Rheinkirmes funfair is simply massive, so we wasted no time and in plunging headlong into the fun. The more courageous among us ventured to lofty heights on the Wild Mouse, the super-sized chain carousel (90 metres high) or the Free Fall Tower, all of which guaranteed spectacular views as well as thrills. Much enjoyment awaited at ground level too, with the Breakdance attraction giving the Gang a good shake and the White-Water Ride – which we were denied last year due to the temperatures – providing a welcome cool-down.
Big fun for small purses
Naturally, after the rarefied atmosphere of the high-altitude rides one needs a little rest (and time to let one’s clothes dry), and the lottery stand produced not just a host of losing numbers but also a cute furry snake (now a fully-fledged member of the Gang). During Skee-Ball, our on-target throws won us a karaoke microphone which was immediately put to good use after the subsequent meal. Yes, our singing still has room for improvement, but we partied to the max, as the long-suffering guests at the neighbouring tables will be happy to confirm.
The choice of refreshments was not easy, given the enormous variety. Thanks to funfair classics like juicy bratwursts, fresh crêpes and delicacies such as flamed salmon and potato twisters, everyone was well fed at the end. But nonetheless: as full-up as we were, there was still room for the obligatory chocolate-covered fruit-on-a-stick.
The crowning finale followed in the marquee with draught beer, live music and everyone laughing and swaying to-and-fro together. Our visit to this traditional funfair once again felt like the perfect team day, an ideal mix of action, enjoyment and togetherness.
Unfortunately, not everyone was lucky enough to experience as carefree an evening as we did, as an accident occurred during the fireworks, so we send those injured our best wishes for a speedy recovery.
