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The spring market in Dithmarschen's district town of Heide on the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein marks the start of the season for over 60 showman families. They lead a life far removed from convention. And that out of tradition. For six, seven or eight generations they have been the traveling people, at home on the country's market squares, often without a permanent residence. You can also find this and other documentaries in the ARD Mediathek: https://www.ardmediathek.de/dokus Robert Gierens knows no other life. Together with his wife Diana, also from a showman family, and their two small children, they live in a caravan all year round. The children's daycare centers and schools change in time with the fairs, while Robert Gierens' work begins in March. But this year it will be more challenging than last. In addition to the traditional children's carousel, he also has to set up the hall of mirrors. A first, because he has to step in for his father-in-law at short notice. He has never set it up before, but being an improvisational artist - that's in the DNA of a showman. Just like Lars Claussen. He not only runs a cart with roasted almonds at the fair, but is also the deputy head of the West Coast Showmen's Association. He is in the front row at the official opening of the fair. He makes rounds to his colleagues, helps with the planning and always has an open ear for his competitors, who have long since become friends, his family. Just like Marlon Weiß, also a third-generation showman. The 27-year-old operator of the so-called Super Hopser only recently took over the business from his father, but knows every screw. He first set up the ride as a child, at the age of nine. Like his colleagues, he is a craftsman, DJ and entertainer all in one. Any other life is unthinkable for all of them. The fair is their home. Three showmen who represent many. Three insights into an unusual life: a life for the fair. More information: https://www.ndr.de/fernsehen/sendunge... First broadcast: May 6, 2024 #ndr #doku #schausteller