Walpurgis Night

spring · European traditions · history · celebration

Bonfires light up. On the night of April 30th, people in northern Europe build huge bonfires to celebrate Walpurgis Night. These fires have been part of the tradition for centuries.

Named for a saint. Walpurgis Night honors Saint Walpurga, an 8th-century abbess who lived in Francia (modern-day France and Germany). When her relics were moved to a town called Eichstätt in 870 AD, the celebration became official.

Spring arrival party. Walpurgis Night falls on April 30th and May 1st, right when spring is getting into full swing. It marks a magical time when winter leaves and warm weather returns.

Festival traditions. People dress up, sing, dance, and gather around the fires to celebrate the season. Different regions have their own special ways of marking the night.