Easter fires
Meeting friends and family, partying, maybe even drinking some mulled wine. Easter fires are part of the tradition in Saxony. But what do these fires stand for and what do they have o do with Easter?
People have considered fire holy since ancient times. During pagan times, spring fires were used to welcome the sun, which the Pagans regarded as their life’s centre. This custom was supposed to bring them fertility, growth and a good harvest.
The meaning of these spring fires was repurposed for Christian beliefs in the 8th century. The victory over the winter and the awakening of nature after a long cold time was transferred to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, as he is the light that fills the darkness.
The lighting of the holy Easter fires is a central event for Christians. The fires are lit and consecrated in front of the church the night before Easter Sunday. The Easter candle is then lit by using these fires, after which it is being carried into the dark church to symbolize the return of Jesus.
This old tradition is still in effect today. People in different regions of Germany collect fallen branches and flammable material, which they layer into big piles, similar to very big bonfires. These Easter fires are lit by using the Easter candle. In some places, people will also wrap straw around big wagon wheels, which they will then push down a hill.
