Europa-Park once again became the stage for a traditional highlight of the carnival season: Around 200 jesters from the Association of Swabian-Alemannic Carnival Guilds (VSAN) gathered at the 4-star superior hotel "Colosseo" to celebrate the awarding of the Golden Jester's Bell to former boxing world champion Regina Halmich. In addition to this special honor, Europa-Park owner Roland Mack received a rare distinction from the VSAN.
Roland Mack Named Honorary Jester of the VSAN
In addition to Regina Halmich’s award, another special honor was bestowed upon Europa-Park owner Roland Mack, who was named an Honorary Jester by the Association of Swabian-Alemannic Carnival Guilds. This rare distinction highlights the deep connection between the carnival tradition and Germany’s largest amusement park. The award was given in recognition of Europa-Park’s 50th anniversary this year. The VSAN jesters expressed their longstanding friendship and close ties with the Mack family, recognizing their continuous support of Swabian-Alemannic traditions.
The ceremony took place in the festive setting of the "Colosseo" hotel and was attended by numerous distinguished guests. A highlight of the evening was the speech delivered by Roland Haag, the newly elected president of the VSAN, who praised Mack’s contributions to the region and the carnival tradition. He emphasized that Europa-Park has been a key venue for carnival events for decades, and that the Mack family’s bond with Swabian-Alemannic Fastnacht is a true success story.
Regina Halmich Receives the Golden Jester’s Bell
The Golden Jester’s Bell is one of the most prestigious awards in Swabian-Alemannic Fastnacht, granted to individuals who stand out for their humor and down-to-earth nature. This year, the honor was awarded to former boxing world champion Regina Halmich, whose charismatic personality and Baden roots make her a perfect fit among the past recipients.
She was welcomed by an illustrious trio, repeatedly referred to that evening as "the three Rolands": Europa-Park owner Roland Mack, newly elected VSAN president Roland Haag, and his predecessor and honorary president Roland Wehrle. Together with Baden-Württemberg’s Deputy Minister President, Thomas Strobl, they celebrated the award winner in grand style. Strobl praised Halmich as a "Baden powerhouse," highlighting her determination not only in the boxing ring but also in the public sphere. He recalled her legendary exhibition match against Stefan Raab as a prime example of her charm and perseverance, stating that she "turned Raab into her personal ratings clown."
During the ceremony, Halmich expressed her gratitude and joy at receiving the award, emphasizing how honored she felt to follow in the footsteps of Markus Söder and Thomas Gottschalk. She also viewed this recognition as a broader acknowledgment of women's achievements in various fields, whether in sports or culture.
Festive Atmosphere and a Grand Finale
The celebratory evening at the "Colosseo" hotel was accompanied by a lively and entertaining program. Humorous speeches, traditional music, and dance performances provided a vibrant atmosphere. The jesters of the VSAN seized the opportunity to celebrate with the honored guests and uphold the tradition of Swabian-Alemannic Fastnacht. These distinctions once again highlight that Europa-Park is not only a major tourist attraction but also an important cultural hub with deep regional roots.
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