April 30

Walpurgis Night

Get ready for a night of spooky fun and ancient traditions on Walpurgis Night - the perfect way to kick off the Halloween season!

Yearly Date

April 30

Observed

Internationally

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate Walpurgis Night on April 30! This holiday has its roots in Germanic folklore and is believed to ward off evil spirits and welcome the spring season. It is celebrated with bonfires, dancing, and feasting, making it a lively and joyous occasion. In some parts of Europe, it is also known as "Witches' Night" or "Hexennacht" where people dress up in costumes and perform rituals. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, Walpurgis Night is a fun and unique celebration that brings communities together. So grab your friends and family and join in on the festivities!

Walpurgis Night Timeline

AD 710

Walpurga's Canonization

Saint Walpurga was canonized. She became associated with warding off illnesses, rabies, and witchcraft, influencing the origins of Walpurgis Night.

800s

April 30 Rituals Established

On the date of Saint Walpurga's feast day, pagan customs were Christianized and Saint Walpurga became associated with April 30 rituals.

1600s

Link Between Walpurgis & Witches

In folk tales and literature, a connection between Walpurgis Night and witches started to become popular.

1800s

Traditional Bonfire Rituals

Rituals like lighting bonfires to ward off witches and other evil spirits on Walpurgis Night became widespread across Germany and other European countries.

1930s

Modern Celebrations Begin

Modern day celebrations of Walpurgis Night, including costume wearing, parades, and feasting, began to take shape.

How to Celebrate Walpurgis Night

1 Attend a bonfire

Walpurgis Night is traditionally celebrated with bonfires, so find a local event or gather with friends and family to light a fire and enjoy the warmth and festivities.

2 Dress up in costume

In some countries, it is customary to dress up in costumes on Walpurgis Night. Get creative and have fun with it, whether it's a historical costume or something more modern and whimsical.

3 Attend a May Day parade

May 1st, also known as May Day, falls within the timeframe of Walpurgis Night celebrations. Check your local area for any parades or festivals happening on this day and join in on the fun.

4 Make a traditional Walpurgis Night meal

Research traditional recipes from countries that celebrate Walpurgis Night and try your hand at making a special meal to honor the holiday.

5 Create a Maypole dance

In some countries, Maypole dancing is a popular tradition on Walpurgis Night. Gather some friends and dance around a tall pole adorned with ribbons, creating intricate patterns as you go.

Why We Love Walpurgis Night

It's a celebration of spring

Walpurgis Night, also known as May Day Eve, is traditionally celebrated on April 30th as a way to welcome the arrival of spring. It's a time to let go of the cold winter months and embrace the warmer weather and new beginnings.

It's steeped in history and tradition

Walpurgis Night has been celebrated for centuries and is deeply rooted in Germanic folklore. It's a time to ward off evil spirits and celebrate the coming of spring with bonfires, dancing, and feasting. Participating in these traditions can be a fun and unique way to connect with history.

It's a night of celebration and fun

Walpurgis Night is a time for communities to come together and celebrate with music, food, and festivities. It's a chance to let loose and have fun with friends and family, making it a beloved holiday for many.