Easter Bonfires in Emden (Districts)

Easter Bonfires — An East Frisian Custom

The Easter bonfire is one of the oldest and most deeply rooted spring customs in Northern Germany. Centuries ago, large bonfires were lit at Easter — symbolizing the end of winter, the return of the sun, and resurrection. In East Frisia, especially in the coastal regions, this custom has remained vibrant to this day. Emden, with its many rural districts, is a stronghold of Easter bonfire traditions.

47 Bonfires in Emden — An Impressive Number

With 47 registered Easter bonfires on Holy Saturday 2026, Emden demonstrates how alive the tradition still is. Most bonfires are private neighborhood or club fires; about ten are publicly accessible and organized by larger clubs. The main public locations:

• Larrelt: SV Sportfreunde Larrelt
• Borssum: SV Blau-Weiß Borssum
• Wybelsum: Bürgerverein Wybelsum
• Petkum: SV Petkum, Blumenstraße
• Twixlum: Starting from 6:30 PM
• Further locations in Conrebbersweg, Uphusen, Marienwehr, Wolthusen, and many more.

Date and Permits

The Easter bonfire takes place exclusively on Holy Saturday, April 4, 2026, starting at 6 PM. The City of Emden only issues permits for this day. The registration deadline for organizers is usually from February to March — anyone wishing to hold an Easter bonfire must register with the city administration in time.

Atmosphere and Procedure

The bonfires are usually lit in the early evening twilight and burn for several hours. At the public bonfires, clubs offer grilled sausages, drinks, mulled wine, and often stick bread for children. It's a thoroughly social occasion: neighbors meet, families come with their children, and groups of friends spend the evening with a beer by the fire.

Responsibility and Environmental Protection

The Easter bonfire is a traditional custom — but not for burning trash. Only untreated wood from garden and landscape maintenance is permitted. Before lighting, the woodpiles must be thoroughly turned over to ensure no hedgehogs or other animals are hiding within. Local clubs usually adhere to these rules very responsibly.