Brandon Festival, traditional bonfires at Buergsonndeg

Chase winter away with the Buergbrennen and witness one of Luxembourg's most spectacular traditions!

During the Buersonndeg weekend, Luxembourg residents gather in the communes to systematically burn down the winter. The dates for 2025 are not yet known. For more information on this event in your commune, please contact your local administration directly.

Buergbrennen tradition for winter hunting

Every year, towards the end of February - beginning of March, Luxembourgers can attend the Buergsonndeg, or Buergbrennen. This time-honoured tradition, also known as the Fête des Brandons, consists in setting gigantic braziers alight in front of a crowd gathered for the occasion.

What happens at the Buergbrennen bonfires?

Buergbrennen are organized by the communes of Luxembourg. The local youth associations perpetuate this Luxembourg tradition.

Buergen" or castles in Luxembourgish come in all shapes and sizes, made from pieces of wood, pallets, Christmas trees, branches, etc. They can be found in the form of castles, braziers topped by a huge cross, etc. The pyres are built from flammable materials salvaged over the winter.

After dark on Buergbrennen day, a torch-lit procession, or "Fakelzuch" , is organized through the villages to reach the "Buerg".

It will then be lit under the watchful eye of the fire department. The flames from these huge blazes are spectacular, rising to heights of several dozen metres. The Buerg will burn well into the night and even into the morning, watched by many spectators.

Buergbrennn, a popular festival in Luxembourg

Thousands of people gather in various towns across the country to admire the spectacle. They also take advantage of the occasion to share local delicacies: beer, glass of crémant, Grillwursts ,...

Buergsonndeg follows the Carnival period . This event traditionally takes place on the first Sunday of Lent (Christian tradition before Easter).

Flames and light visible from afar replace the darkness and herald the return of light. The warmth given off by the huge bonfires allows people to brave the cold and meet up in a friendly atmosphere. The Buergbrennen are also anopportunity to forge links with other villagers.

Traditional bonfires herald the return of spring

This is also the time when migratory birds return and the first flowers bloom.

After migrating for the winter to more southerly destinations, the cranes are returning north. They fly over Luxembourg to the delight of residents who watch for their return. Everyone can follow their V-shaped flights and hear their unmistakable "grus grus". A true delight!

Snowdrops and crocuses, daffodils, narcissi and tulips begin to bloom in the garden. These flowers clearly herald the return of spring, with its longer, warmer days.

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