Shortly after 4 am the streets began to come to life, as reported by a reporter from the news agency Keystone-SDA. In temperatures just above freezing, the first spectators wandered around the Bundesplatz and enjoyed the artistically braided onion braids.
The old streets of the town and the central squares were completely cleared of snow. The snow was also removed so that there was enough space for over 400 market stalls.
Vegetables as far as the eye can see
Zibelemärit has tons of onions, garlic, carrots, leeks and salsify. With almost 34 tons of onions, a significant amount was available again this year, as announced by the city of Bern. This is the highest value since 2019. However, the record of almost 60 tons from 2014 was clearly missing.
This year, there were a total of 430 market stalls on the streets. Of these, 101 stalls sold onions, slightly more than the previous year. As always, spectators found plenty of fair stalls and open-air counters at the Berne Volksfest.
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Title: Exploring Zibelemärit: Insights from the Expert
Interviewer: Welcome to our special feature on the annual Zibelemärit festival in Bern, Switzerland. We’re here with Dr. Lukas Meyer, an expert on agricultural festivals and local markets. Dr. Meyer, could you set the scene for those who might not be familiar with Zibelemärit?
Dr. Meyer: Absolutely! Zibelemärit, which translates to Onion Market, is a vibrant celebration held in Bern that traditionally takes place in early November. This year, as reported, people began gathering around 4 am to enjoy the chilly morning and the artistically braided onion stalls. It’s a fascinating cultural event that marks the beginning of winter in the city.
Interviewer: That sounds delightful! I understand that this year’s event showcased a significant amount of produce. Can you shed light on the types of vegetables featured at Zibelemärit?
Dr. Meyer: Certainly! The market is renowned for its array of onions, garlic, carrots, leeks, and salsify. This year, an impressive 34 tons of onions were available, marking the highest yield since 2019. While we didn’t quite reach the record of nearly 60 tons from 2014, the increase in onion stalls – now totaling 101 – indicates a growing appreciation for these staples.
Interviewer: How does the quantity of onions and other vegetables influence local farmers and the economy surrounding Zibelemärit?
Dr. Meyer: The event not only celebrates a significant agricultural product but also provides a valuable platform for local farmers. The visibility and sales generated during Zibelemärit can boost income for these farmers while fostering a sense of community. It encourages consumers to explore locally-sourced produce, which has broader implications for sustainability practices and the local economy overall.
Interviewer: With 430 market stalls this year, did you notice any trends in terms of consumer preferences or shopping habits?
Dr. Meyer: Yes, the diversity at Zibelemärit is impressive. It’s not just about onions; there are many fair stalls and open-air counters offering a range of goods, from artisanal products to seasonal vegetables. This reflects a growing trend where consumers are not only looking for fresh produce but also unique, locally crafted products. The engagement in such markets fortifies local economies and encourages a mindset of support for community businesses.
Interviewer: What practical advice would you give to readers interested in visiting Zibelemärit or similar local markets?
Dr. Meyer: I would advise