Last year Dolstra bought another tree for 1 euro. “If you compare it, the trees have become more expensive.” It doesn’t matter much to Dolstra. “No, we’re going to take it to the press soon, to have it made into apple or pear juice.”
Bidding by auction is a tradition and therefore brings De Karstenhoeve a nice penny. There is a special auction for children and an annual market is also held. “It’s a bit of a nostalgic event,” says administrator Petra Hessels.
The fact that it is a good pear year does not mean that De Karstenhoeve is also getting more money. “The price of pears goes down if there are many good pears,” says Hessels. “So we often have the same amount as when we have a bad year.”
Two ladies from Genemuiden went to Ruinerwold today especially to participate in the tradition. “It is a tribute to my brother Gerrit”, says one of them. “He always participated in this. It is nice to maintain such a tradition and we are happy to participate in that.”
What will happen to the pears next? “Nice stew and eat it, of course. Fun with the whole family.”
Further on, Berjohn Brust is lashing a tree. “I bought this one, it’s the only one that belongs to me,” says the Beilenaar, who is busy with a long stick. “I like to participate in this. One tree is more than enough, because I’m still busy collecting all the pears.”
He is not afraid of pears on his head. “It’s not that bad. Just pay attention.”