It was only a show of its former self, but at least it still existed, the “Kappenabend”, once an occasion for camaraderie among the fools and their friends. One wore the official “Kappe” of one’s club or association and otherwise no costume. What is left is a small gathering of folks that like to have a place to go and to talk to friends, have a meal and dance a bit, and perhaps walk away with a prize for the best hat. That night when the Hansa House opened its doors for such an event not even 100 people showed up, some with interesting concoctions on their heads. Elsewhere an evening was canceled altogether.

Fools and their caps

There was not one local carnival friend of the K.G. Hansa. We learned that it had been disbanded earlier and all the old fools had other occasions to attend, like family celebrations or such. Clearly the spirit of German Carnival in Canada is on its deathbed. What once was an expression of German custom enriching the Canadian landscape is a thing of the past.

Surely Her Worship Hazel McCallion can recall the glory days, when she and her City Council were high-jacked and she too was relegated to a backseat; instead the local Fools under the scepter of a Royal Highness, His Foolishness and His Princess moved in with their entourage, having the say over the day.

It does not seem so long ago that the halls still filled up with fun loving people finding joy in this expression of our culture. But it was not all sad.

Karin Schulz, prize for "eleganteste" Kappe (most elegant cap)	Horst Wilk, prize for "verrückteste Kappe" (craziest cap)

At least two individuals were very happy. Karin Schultz won for her elegant hat creation and Horst Wilk with his 20 Gallon floppy Stetson was found to have the craziest headdress.

To the sound of the Variation Band

The Variations Band played tirelessly for those that wanted to exercise their dance legs. The club’s bar and kitchen guarantied satisfaction for the bodily needs. The Herrings-Salad and the Rouladen were again outstanding!   SFR