Each August, a dragon shatters the tranquility of Furth im Wald, home to about 9,000 residents, on the edge of the Bavarian National Forest. For 500 years, villagers have taken to the Drachenstich (spearing of the dragon), yet the beast refuses to die.

Through Aug. 19, see them take another stab at the mythical monster. Nowadays, he’s a high-tech behemoth, capable of incredible feats and full of electronic wizardry; the product of collaboration among more than 20 companies and institutions.

To see how the dragon fares this year, first visit www.rachenstich.de.

You’ll need to speak some German to buy tickets to what is billed the country’s oldest folk play. Adult tickets cost 20 euros to 28 euros; ages 4 to 14 are discounted by 6 euros. Performances begin at 8 p.m., except for Sunday, when shows are scheduled for 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

A historical parade takes place Sunday at 2 p.m. featuring more than 1,400 marchers in costume, 250 horses, assorted wagons and weaponry, musicians, hunters and fishermen. Entry costs 4 euros for adults and 2 euros for children.