Heidekreis — Bürgergilde Munster Osterfeuer Breloh

Bürgergilde Munster and Rifle Company Breloh

The Bürgergilde Munster e.V. is one of the central rifle clubs in the town of Munster in the Heidekreis. Closely associated with the Bürgergilde are the rifle companies in the Munster districts of Breloh and Alvern, which, as festival allies, organize joint events. These include rifle festivals, Easter bonfires, and social occasions throughout the year.

Osterfeuer Breloh

The Easter bonfire in Breloh is part of this close cooperation. It takes place around Easter on the Schützenplatz (riflemen's square) in Breloh – Holy Saturday, April 4th, or Easter Sunday, April 5th, 2026. The exact date will be announced by the board of the Bürgergilde Munster in the 2025/2026 club calendar.

Customary Tradition

The Easter bonfire is an old Germanic custom that celebrates the rebirth of nature in spring and the driving away of winter. With Christianity, the custom was integrated into the Easter period and symbolizes the resurrection of Christ. In the heath region, the Easter bonfire remains a living tradition to this day.

Festival Schedule

Weeks before Easter, members begin collecting and stacking the wood. A woodpile several meters high is created. On the evening of the event, at nightfall, the fire is ceremonially lit. The flames soar high into the heath sky.

Catering and Socializing

Sausage stands, drink stands with mulled wine, beer, and lemonade, as well as a small seating area complement the custom. Members of the Bürgergilde, the Breloh rifle company, and the Alvern rifle company are on hand as helpers. For the children, there is an Easter Bunny action and an Easter egg hunt.