On Wednesday, 11 September, accadis day-care centers welcomed a very special guest: the reigning Lantern Queen Annalena I.! As a sponsoring partner of this year’s Lantern Festival, we were honored to receive the queen for a visit. The children of the accadis day-care centers (Bilingual Preschool and Kindertagesstätte SÜDCAMPUS) greeted the Lantern Queen with excitement and curiosity, asked her questions eagerly and were happy to receive her autograph.
Not only did the children have the chance to ask the Lantern Queen curious questions such as “Does your wand have magical powers?”, but we too were able to gain interesting insights into her reign. In a short interview, we asked the Lantern Queen five questions.
Interview with the reigning Lantern Queen 2024
How does one become a Lantern Queen?
The application process to become Lantern Queen is quite traditional, starting with the submission of a CV and some photos. All applicants are then invited to an in-person interview, where they are asked a series of questions and are required to give an impromptu speech. It’s an exciting challenge that gives a glimpse into the personality and abilities of the future Lantern Queens. In the end, the board faces the tough decision of selecting the new Lantern Queen from a pool of many fantastic candidates.
When you think back to your kindergarten days, is there a special memory?
Yes, absolutely! I’m still friends with someone I met during my time in kindergarten – we’ve been friends for 23 years now! That’s a memory I cherish, and our friendship has stood the test of time, remaining something truly special to this day.
Did you visit other schools and day-cares? What stood out to you during your visit here?
Yes, I visited other institutions as well, and what particularly struck me here at accadis was how seamlessly bilingualism is integrated into everyday life. As a nursery teacher myself, I’m impressed by how naturally the children switch between languages. It’s something truly remarkable and a great asset for their future.
What was your favorite fairground ride at the Lantern Festival?
To be honest, I’m not a big fan of rides, but I did really enjoy the chain carousel – it’s actually the only ride I went on!
What has been your favorite moment as Lantern Queen?
It’s hard to pick just one moment, as each day of the Lantern Festival was unique in its own way. There were so many highlights over the course of the four-day event, each one unforgettable. However, a particularly special experience was seeing the festival grounds from 30 meters above, thanks to a ride on the fire department’s aerial ladder. That was a breathtaking moment I’ll never forget.
The children were captivated by the Lantern Queen and her stories, and this memorable visit will surely stay with them for a long time! Thank you, dear Annalena I.!
The Bad Homburg Lantern Festival and the Lantern Queen
The Bad Homburg Lantern Festival is one of the region’s most historic and popular events. For over 80 years, the citizens and visitors of Bad Homburg have celebrated this four-day folk festival, which begins on the last weekend in August. Highlights of the festival include the grand lantern parade, the fireworks display, and, of course, the crowning of the Lantern Queen. This special tradition symbolizes the radiance of the festival and has been carried on every year since 1935. The Lantern Queen represents both the festival and the city throughout the year at various events. Her role is not just symbolic but also a representational one, with many official duties to fulfill.