It is the beginning of spring, not yet summer. A sparrow is embracing the last hour of the sunset, replying the warm favour with a delectable tone of his. Pleasant fragrance is increasing its presence, at first as a subconscious memory of tasty barbecue, to moments later, crackling wildly in a burning crescendo. Pillars of smoke are raised as tall towers from here to the furthest of horizons.
It’s reaching the smallest of hamlets to the biggest of cities. Sweden is burning under joyful singing. This description may seem odd but this is an annual family event, and it does not have anything to do with demonstrations or political rallies that goes wrong.
It is “Walpurgis” night or “Valborg” as I call it with the rest of the people in Sweden. “Walpurgis” is a very old holiday which we can thank Germany for at some point during the medieval time. The celebration has Catholic history and highlights the memory of the German saint named Walpurgis. During the years it has, of course, developed to become something different. The holiday itself is said to have merged into the Vikings way of celebrating the arrival of spring.
Big bonfires are the biggest part of this celebration, and they are not meant for hot dogs. Originally it was a way for the farmers to scare away wolves and supernatural creatures. You see, the very next day, May 1st, was the day when the farm would open the doors and let their animals out to the spring green pasture. Besides the fires, it was very common to shot (after the gun was invented), drum, and make an awful lot of noises. Everything to make sure that nothing harmful would linger the next day.
Nowadays we use fireworks, maypoles, and singalong songs to make sure spring will feel welcome. The old folk myths might not play the same role anymore, but I think that this charming celebration is a beautiful way to remind yourself that summer is coming. A fire can simply be a reason to burn the old pile of dead branches in your garden and make it nice for the summer. It is a holiday that not requires anything more from you than the excitement for the promised summer.
Wishing you all a safe and lovely “Walpurgis” celebration everyone!
-Jonas & Lindsay
