Enjoy German pageantry at its best this July in the charming Bavarian town of Ravensburg.

Every year the local population turns out in force to celebrate Rutenfest - the 'cane festival' - surrounded by the city's quaint medieval towers and gates.

The ceremony itself dates back to the days schoolchildren and their teachers marked the end of the academic year by harvesting cane switches in the nearby meadows.

After gathering together their load, they returned home singing for a big celebration with their parents and other townsfolk.

These days students remain at the heart of the spectacle, many donning traditional costume for the parade and accompanying music and entertainment, which kicks off this year on July 18th.

Apart from traditional festivities like Rutentest, Ravensburg is also an excellent place to shop. Don't forget to add some of its famous games, puzzles or children's books to your basket.