The Walpurgis night festival (Walpurgisnacht in German) is synonymous with the Harz Mountains and particularly the Brocken mountain. But what happens on Walpurgisnacht? And why is it celebrated?

Walpurgis night is short for Saint Walpurgis night, also known as Saint Walpurga’s Eve. It is always held on the 30^th of April and continues into the early hours of the 1^st of May. The festival’s details, traditions, and customs vary depending on the country (it is celebrated or at least known in several European countries) or even by region. Traditionally speaking, it was a night to pay tribute to the 8^th century Abbess Walpurga who was praised by Christians as successfully warding off pests, illness and witchcraft. Over the years, the celebration has been influenced by pagan practices, local folklore, myths, and legends.

Derived from pagan rituals, it is fabled that the summit of the Brocken mountain (the highest peak in the Harz and also in Northern Germany) is the stage for witches swooping on broomsticks, dancing around fires and reveling with the devil, celebrating the end of winter and the start of Spring. One prominent literary reference has cemented the reputation and character of the Walpurgisnacht celebrations in the Harz Mountains. German poet and all-round national treasure, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, used the Brocken on Walpurgisnacht for one of the scenes from his world-famous play ‘Faust’. In it, Mephistopheles (the devil with which Faust has entered into a doomed pact) is in disguise as a young nobleman with hooved feet and is trying to distract Faust from grief with the Bacchanalia of Walpurgisnacht. 

Nowadays the tradition is in full swing with up to 20 festivals and parties happening in the Harz region on the 30^th of April. Understandably, such a unique and atmospheric festival attracts visitors from all over the world hoping to experience a bit of the supernatural, or an excellent party at the very least. The most iconic and probably most raucous festival happens on the summit of the Brocken, arguably the ultimate Walpurgisnacht destination! Locals and visitors dress in elaborate witch and devil costumes, spending time with friends, families and their communities – a true time of merriment. Magicians, jugglers, and musicians entertain the crowds of witches and devils and food and drink stalls serve local specialties and keep energy levels up for a night of partying. The pinnacle of the celebrations is usually a huge bonfire around which revelers dance and sing into the wee hours. Grand firework displays are also common.

Understandably, this is a very popular time to visit the Harz Mountains, but you can still experience the region’s unique history, culture and atmosphere at more peaceful times on our Walking in the Saxon Switzerland National Park tour, Discover distinct rock formations and walk through ancient woods and picturesque valleys alongside the winding Elbe River. Much of the route follows the Painters Trail, known locally as the Malerweg. In the Romantic Era, many painters such as Casper David Friedrich and Ludwig Richter came from Switzerland and England seeking inspiration from this region's beautiful wilderness. This tour will introduce you to the finest countryside in this fascinating corner of Germany. Stay in traditional guesthouses and hotels and feast on hearty food such as Schnitzel and of course, locally brewed Pilsner beer.

If you need any more information or any help with planning your Harz Witches Trail adventure, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.