Walpurgis Night
April 30, Tuesday
History and Origin
Pagan Roots. Walpurgis Night was originally associated with the celebration of the arrival of spring and fertility rituals. It was considered the time when the worlds of people and spirits became closest to each other.
The name of Walpurgis. The name of the holiday is associated with the name of Saint Walpurgis, a Christian missionary of the 8th century who was canonized on May 1. Despite its Christian origins, the night has a more pagan character.
Legends of Witches. It was believed that on this night witches gather for a sabbath on mountain tops, for example, on the Brocken (Harz, Germany). They have feasts, perform magical rituals, and worship the devil.
Traditions and Rituals
Fire as protection. The main symbol of Walpurgis Night is bonfires, which are lit to drive out evil spirits and witches. People also jump over fire for purification and protection from troubles.
Masquerades. Costumed processions are held, in which participants dress up as witches, spirits, and mythical creatures.
Noise and music. Bells, loud songs, and musical instruments are used to scare away evil spirits.
House decoration. In some regions, houses and yards are decorated with rowan branches or greenery, which are supposed to scare away evil spirits.
Celebrating the arrival of spring. In addition to the mystical component, the night is considered the beginning of the spring season. People have fun, dance, and organize folk festivals.
Modern celebrations
Germany. The Brocken Mountain hosts theatrical performances, mass celebrations and costume parades.
Scandinavia. In Sweden, Walpurgis Night is known as Valborgsmässoafton - a time of bonfires, songs and welcoming spring.
Czech Republic and Slovakia. The night is called "witch burning" (Pálení čarodějnic), straw effigies of witches are burned.