Walpurgisnacht (Witches’ Night) is an ancient festival to welcome the spring weather and to drive away evil spirits in Europe. Here is a bit of fun from the 2016 celebrations.
There are many variations of the festival, but mostly celebrated with dancing and bonfires. Coincidentally, it is held six months from All Hallows’ Eve, more commonly known as Halloween.
The name comes from the 8th century missionary Saint Walburga who was known for speaking out against witchcraft and sorcery.
Believing it was dangerous to be outside on this night people lit fires and danced wildly to deter the witches from coming too close to them or their homes. These traditions led to the custom of lighting fires and erecting maypoles still seen today.
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