Feb 19 • 12:42 UTC 🇩🇪 Germany SZ

Column 'Here and Away': End of the Cherry Blossom Party

A reflection on the decline of community celebrations due to fears of overcrowding and the enjoyment of social gatherings.

The article discusses the changing perspective on hosting parties and community events in the context of fears related to crowd control and safety. It reminisces about the days when gatherings were spontaneous and community-driven, highlighting that even if food runs short, the value of meeting new people and sharing experiences outweighed any inconveniences. The author draws a parallel between personal gatherings and larger city festivals, questioning the idea of canceling beloved events like Carnival parades or the Harbor Birthday in Hamburg simply due to concerns about crowds.

The piece critiques the current trend where organizers are hesitant to host events because of potential overcrowding, arguing that this undermines the essence of celebration and community unity. The author emphasizes that gatherings are meant to bring people together and foster connections, and that concerns about logistics should not deter communities from celebrating their culture and traditions. The discourse points at a potential loss of communal spirit if such trends continue, as it may lead to fewer opportunities for social interaction.

In conclusion, the article underlines the importance of balancing safety with the need for community engagement. It calls for a reconsideration of how society views public events, advocating for a more open approach to gatherings that recognizes their importance in building social ties and reviving local traditions, rather than letting fear cancel them entirely.

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