In Carinthia, tradition is being honored – and finally made tangible again! After a two-year hiatus due to Corona, countless Easter fires were lit again on Holy Saturday across the state. For everyone who can’t be there live this year, we visited the Easter bonfire in Puch in the Carinthian municipality of Weißenstein.
They are a must in the Carinthian customs calendar: for the first time since the start of the Corona pandemic, the Easter bonfires, which are popular with young and old, are taking place again. And with them an ancient tradition returns – because originally it was a Germanic custom in honor of the goddess Ostara. Sowing, growth, fertility and vegetation are celebrated.
Traditional associations or the respective rural youth are usually responsible for organizing the Easter bonfires. In many municipalities, the voluntary fire brigades also ensure an exciting – and above all safe – burning of the Easter mounds.
Sacred embers for the Easter bonfire
Incidentally, in many places the embers for lighting the heaps are collected during the fire dedication ceremony in the churches. Incidentally, the Easter bonfire in Puch in the municipality of Weißenstein is organized by the “Ei Ei Club Puch”.
Then the fireworks burst
In Carinthia, according to tradition, the shooting of fireworks on the morning of Easter Sunday heralds the resurrection of the Lord. However, in some communities in the southernmost state, the cannons are fired next to the Easter bonfire on Holy Saturday. Theoretically, it is allowed from Saturday to Monday. However, without approval, there are hefty fines of up to 2000 euros.
Easter fire despite extreme drought?
As popular as the big “campfires” are, they shouldn’t be burned down everywhere: Easter fires are generally allowed on the night from Holy Saturday to Easter Sunday. However, you have to be careful, because after this year’s dry winter, there is still a fire ban in many places!
The decision whether Easter fires are allowed in a municipality is taken by the relevant mayor. One thing is certain: Easter baskets must be registered before they burn down, and many communities offer their own service for this.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
