Bonfire festival, traditional bonfires during Buergsonndeg

Burn away winter with the "Buergbrennen" and witness one of Luxembourg's most spectacular traditions! During the weekend of "Buersonndeg" or Bonfire Sunday, Luxembourg residents gather in their communities to celebrate the end of winter.

This event traditionally takes place on the first weekend of Lent, which follows Ash Wednesday celebrated in the Christian tradition. In 2026, Buergbrennen will take place on the weekend of February 21 and 22. For more information about this event in your municipality, please contact your local government.

The Buergbrennen tradition to chase away winter

Every year, during Buergsonndeg, the inhabitants of Luxembourg can attend the Buergbrennen. This ancient tradition, better known as the Fête des Brandons, consists of lighting huge bonfires in front of a crowd gathered for the occasion.

An ancient and symbolic origin

Unlike Candlemas, which has Christian origins, like many Luxembourgish traditions, Buergbrennen has its roots in pagan traditions. At the time, these bonfires marked the transition between winter and spring. They were often associated with rituals to ensure abundant harvests.

A local legend says that the higher and stronger the fire burns, the more favorable the year will be for the community. Over the centuries, these practices have evolved into popular festivals . Buergsonndeg follows the Carnival period. While it marks the beginning of spring, it also opens the period of Lent, a time of fasting before Easter.

How do the Buergbrennen bonfires work?

Buergbrennen are organized by Luxembourg municipalities. It is usually the youth associations in the municipalities that perpetuate this Luxembourg tradition. The "Buergen" are built in all possible forms: castles ("Buerg" in Luxembourgish), bonfires topped with a huge cross, etc.

The bonfires are built with flammable materials collected throughout the winter: pieces of wood, pallets, Christmas trees from the previous Christmas, branches, etc. This custom also promotes the eco-friendly recycling of natural materials. On Buergbrennen day, once night has fallen, a torchlight procession, known as a "Fakelzuch," makes its way through the villages to reach the municipality's "Buerg."

In Remich, in the south of the country, a straw man, the Stréimännchen, is burned and then thrown into the waters of the Moselle, after being carried through the town by a joyful procession.

The Buergbrennen, a popular festival in Luxembourg

Thousands of people gather around the Buerg to watch the spectacle. Spectators also take the opportunity to share local delicacies in a convivial atmosphere : beer, glasses of crémant, Grillwursts, etc. The flames from these huge bonfires are spectacular, rising several dozen meters high. The Buerg will burn for most of the night, even until morning, under the gaze of numerous spectators and the supervision of firefighters.

Symbolically, the flames and light visible from far away replace the darkness. They herald the return of light and spring. The heat given off by the huge bonfires helps to ward off the cold. Spectators, some of whom have traveled from far away, can meet in a warm atmosphere. The Buergbrennen are also an opportunity to forge links with other inhabitants of the village.

Where can you see the most spectacular Buergbrennen?

The municipality of Niederanven is known for its impressive Buergbrennen. Every year, this huge bonfire attracts large crowds between the villages of Munsbach and Niederanven. Remember to arrive early so you can park safely nearby. The site opens at 6 p.m. and has food stands where you can wait and warm up while you wait for the bonfire to be lit. The bonfire is lit at 7:30 p.m. This year, the event will take place on February 22, 2026.

Dudelange also attracts many visitors with its festive atmosphere and spectacular parades. The event will take place on February 21 at 6 p.m. near Home Saint Jean.

Be sure to dress warmly to attend the Buergbrennen. At night, the cold can be biting. Don't forget your hat, scarf, and especially warm gloves and shoes. Arrive early enough to find parking easily.

Towards the return of spring in Luxembourg

This is also the time of year when migratory birds return. After migrating to more southern destinations for the winter, gray cranes fly back north. They fly over Luxembourg and the surrounding regions, much to the delight of residents. Many of us watch for their return and listen for their characteristic "krus krus" call.

Everyone can follow their flights in a large V shape in the sky. It's a real joy! This is also the time of year when the first flowers bloom in Luxembourg. Snowdrops , crocuses, daffodils, narcissi, and tulips begin to flower in gardens. These flowers clearly herald the return of spring, longer days, and warmer weather.

Did you know that after Buergbrennen, there is another popular spring tradition that all lovers in Luxembourg look forward to? Discover the romantic tradition of Bretzelsonnedg and declare your love in true Luxembourg style!

Different season, different traditions: discover the traditions of May 1 in Luxembourg.