Biikebrennen Hattstedtermarsch

Biikebrennen — A Frisian Tradition

The Biikebrennen (also "Biike") is one of the oldest and most significant traditions of the Frisian peninsulas and islands. Every year on the evening of February 21st, large bonfires are lit throughout North Frisia and on the islands (Sylt, Föhr, Amrum) – as a ritual winter-driving-away fire and, at the same time, a welcome to spring. Historically, the Biikebrennen once also marked the farewell of the whalers, who left their homeland the next morning for the months-long whaling season – the fire was their last sight of home.

In 2014, the Biikebrennen was recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage of Germany – as one of the most defining regional customs and traditions.

The Arlau-Schleuse — An Atmospheric Venue

Hattstedtermarsch is located in Husum Bay – the wide marshland landscape between Husum and the Eider estuary in the North Frisia district. The Arlau-Schleuse is a historic lock structure on the Arlau, a small tributary of the North Sea. The Biikebrennen is ignited on an area next to the lock – in the open, vast marshland, with views stretching for miles. This makes the location one of the most atmospheric Biike spots in Husum Bay.

Schedule: Fire at 5:00 PM, Kale Supper from 6:00 PM

The evening's schedule combines two North Frisian traditions – the Biike and the kale supper:

• 5:00 PM — Lighting of the Biike on the marsh meadow next to the Arlau-Schleuse
• Afterwards — Lingering by the fire with warm drinks and small snacks
• 6:00 PM — Start of the traditional kale supper at the Nordsee-Hotel Arlau-Schleuse (registration required)

The Kale Supper — The Culinary Tradition

The kale supper is the indispensable North Frisian winter meal – kale with Pinkel sausage, smoked bacon, Bregenwurst, and floury potatoes. At the Nordsee-Hotel Arlau-Schleuse, the meal is served in traditional style – hearty, abundant, with a shot of Korn (schnapps) as a "digestive aid" after the meal. Registration is required; places are limited, and the supper has been fully booked for years.

Nordsee-Hotel Arlau-Schleuse — Organizer and Host

The Nordsee-Hotel Arlau-Schleuse (Hattstedtermarsch 43, 25856 Hattstedtermarsch) organizes the Biikebrennen in cooperation with the local tourism association. For decades, the hotel has been a meeting point for guests from the wider region and for day-trippers who attend the kale supper after the Biikebrennen. Contact: 04846/6016496.