Lawless Territories Throng Lake Constance

At the heart of Lake Constance, the Americana fair is a hub for Western fans across Europe, attracting thousands from all over Germany. Among the attendees are Gunnar and Esther Schneider, passionate enthusiasts of the Western lifestyle from Dresden.

Dressed in authentic Western attire, the Schneiders don cowboy hats, checked shirts, jeans, large belt buckles, and leather boots. Their love for the Western lifestyle transcends more than just fashion, as they own four horses and have been fans of the American way of life for 25 years, despite never having visited the USA.

The fair, considered one of the most significant events for Western fans, offers a plethora of exhibitors selling Western clothing and accessories. One such exhibitor is Klaus Inderfurth, a renowned cowboy hat designer, who creates custom hats for his customers. These hats, made from real materials like beaver hair, sometimes mixed with rabbit hair, sell for prices starting at 540 euros and can last for 20 years with proper care.

The Schneiders, like many others, are inspired by the US-American series "Yellowstone." The show provides a glimpse into an authentic Western lifestyle, which resonates deeply with fans. In fact, the fair features a saloon named after the series, providing a taste of the Wild West right in the heart of Europe.

Dirk Trautmann, who runs a truck bar at the fair, notes that events like these allow like-minded people to live out their passions. He explains, "The Americana fair is a unique opportunity for people to immerse themselves in the Western lifestyle and connect with others who share their interests."

With over 300 exhibitors from 16 nations participating, the fair is expected to have more than 50,000 visitors from Wednesday to Sunday. The event also features riding shows, with 460 horses and 650 cattle brought in for the event.

Despite the fair's success, some argue that a location like Frankfurt with its high-rises might not be as suitable. Gunnar Schneider, reflecting on the event, notes, "Lake Constance provides a perfect backdrop for the Western lifestyle. The peaceful, scenic environment complements the essence of the Western culture."

Indeed, the Americana fair at Lake Constance is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Western genre and lifestyle, kept alive by successes like "Yellowstone" and the passion of its dedicated fans.