Frühschoppen might sound like a much-loved female activity (namely, shopping) reserved for early during the day, but in fact it’s not. It is a traditional, German and Austrian equivalent of brunch, i.e. a combined breakfast and lunch normally eaten in the mid- to late morning. Usually it takes place on Sundays. You meet friends and family at around 11am for some Weizen (wheat beer), Weißwurst (white sausage) with sweet mustard and Brezeln (pretzels) and eat, drink and chat. It’s a nice social event.
Frühschoppen began in rural areas taking place on Sundays in a German tavern (Wirtshaus) at the perpetually reserved table “Stammtisch”. During Frühschoppen, folk may discuss everyday life and politics. In the corner of the tavern or Festzelt during Frühschoppen there is typically a band playing folk music. Nowadays some places have pop, rock, and jazz bands during Frühschoppen.
