Posted on 05/01/2024 10:05:34 PM PDT by nickcarraway
Sweden kicks off for spring with a traditional night of songs and bonfires on April 30.
Walpurgis Night, “Valborg” in Swedish, is the last day of April, spent in celebration of spring and community spirit.
Dating back to the Middle Ages, it was initially the Germans who brought the festive tradition to Sweden, in honour of the 8th century German saint, Walpurgis. In medieval times, April 30 marked the end of the administrative year; local merchants and craftsmen celebrated by dancing and singing in anticipation of spring.
It was also a significant day for peasants and farmers, who attended the annual village meeting, letting their animals run free while they enjoyed eggs and schnapps with friends and family. During this time, bonfires became the centre of the festivity, lit up to scare away predators
Today, the Walpurgis Night is spent in unifying choral singing by bonfires as people get together to feel the warmth of the upcoming season.
Many Swedish high school students also use the day to celebrate their nearing graduation, while higher students dress in authentic student caps, white with a black peak, and sing to welcome a bright future.
Happy Valborgsmässoafton!
Walpurgis Nacht is also the night when all spells and charms are lifted for that one night
[snip] Dating back to the Middle Ages, it was initially the Germans who brought the festive tradition to Sweden, in honour of the 8th century German saint, Walpurgis. In medieval times, April 30 marked the end of the administrative year; local merchants and craftsmen celebrated by dancing and singing in anticipation of spring.
It was also a significant day for peasants and farmers, who attended the annual village meeting, letting their animals run free while they enjoyed eggs and schnapps with friends and family. During this time, bonfires became the centre of the festivity, lit up to scare away predators. [/snip]
Thanks nickcarraway.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.