What is Schlaraffia?
Schlaraffia is a worldwide fellowship of men dedicated to humor, art, and friendship. Founded in Prague in 1859, it now unites over 200 local chapters across five continents – connected by the German language and a unique, medieval-inspired role-playing tradition.
Three Pillars – One Experience
What may look like a club at first glance is really a way of life. Schlaraffia rests on three fundamental pillars:
Humor
Witty, subtle, never hurtful. Whether wordplay, satire, or self-irony – at Schlaraffia, laughter comes with sophistication. Not taking yourself too seriously is part of the program.
Friendship
No business cards, no networking agendas. What connects Schlaraffen is genuine, deep friendship – across professions, borders, and generations.
Art
Poetry, music, speeches, sketches – everyone brings their talent. The weekly meetings are both stage and inspiration. Perfection is not required, enthusiasm is.
The Game
The Schlaraffen game draws on the knightly culture of the Middle Ages. There is a Knights' Table and a Squires' Table, a throne with Marshal and Chancellor, a Master of Ceremonies and other offices – each with its own duties and traditions. The rules are laid down in the "Spiegel und Ceremoniale" (S&C), the only law of the Schlaraffen.
What makes it special: much is deliberately left open. This freedom keeps the game alive and allows each chapter to develop its own character. The German language serves as the unifying element for Schlaraffen around the globe.
Of course, no written description can replace the experience of a real Sippung. The atmosphere, the humor, the camaraderie – you simply have to experience it yourself.
How a Sippung Unfolds
Every Sippung follows a time-honored sequence – the same worldwide, yet unique every time.
Arrival at the Burg
Schlaraffen arrive, greet one another, and settle into the mood for the evening.
First Part – the Official Part
Ceremonial opening, welcoming of guests, reading of the minutes, and news from the Chancellor's office.
Social & Dining Break
A short break for conversation and refreshments – the intermission between the formal first half and the creative second half.
Second Part – the Theme
The creative highlight: contributions on the evening's theme – poems, talks, music, sketches. Everyone may, no one must. Three minutes maximum, rewarded with "drei Lulu" – the Schlaraffen applause.
End of the Sippung
The Sippung is formally closed. The evening continues in convivial company.
The Language of the Schlaraffen
A small glossary of Schlaraffen terms – so you feel at home from the very first visit.
Reych (Chapter)
The local chapter – each Schlaraffia community forms its own Reych with a unique name, coat of arms, and character.
Sippung (Meeting)
The regular gathering of Schlaraffen – a blend of ritual, humor, and cultural program.
The Eagle Owl
Symbol and heraldic animal of Schlaraffia. Represents wisdom, vigilance, and a special way of seeing the world.
Squire, Junker & Knight
Members of Schlaraffia progress through three ranks: Squire (Knappe), Junker, and Knight (Ritter). The journey is a time of getting to know one another, growing into the community, and deepening one's understanding of the game.
Pilgrim & Candidate
Visitors and newcomers are called Pilgrims (Pilger). Those who decide to embark on the path into Schlaraffia first become Candidates (Prüfling) – the first step toward membership.
The Burg (Castle)
The meeting place of a Reych. It can be a restaurant, a clubroom, or a dedicated venue – as long as it feels like a castle.
Spiegel & Ceremoniale
The only rulebook of the Schlaraffen. Sets the framework but deliberately leaves room for creativity and local traditions.