Reformer Planet Glow

When Planets Blaze

The Reformer Planet Glow is one of the most unusual Easter bonfires in Saxony-Anhalt. Instead of a single large fire, the Magdeburg-Reform Citizens' Association ignites nine fire barrels in a specific arrangement on Holy Saturday – each barrel represents a planet in our solar system. The venue is Fort II, one of the former fortifications on the southwestern outskirts of Magdeburg, which is now used as a community and cultural center.

The choice of venue is no coincidence: the Magdeburg-Reform Citizens' Association operates the illuminated planet trail right next door – an astronomical educational path that has attracted school classes and families for years. The Planet Glow therefore serves as both an Easter bonfire and a farewell: the illuminated planet models will be switched off until next autumn, making the Holy Saturday glow the final festive event of the season.

Markus Becker, Easter Eggs, and Party Band

The festival begins at 4 PM and runs until 10 PM. Magdeburg's well-known Markus Becker will perform on stage – a pianist and hit artist, best known to many for his hit song Das rote Pferd (The Red Horse). Between the live acts, a party band provides the entertainment, and the traditional Easter egg competition for children takes place on the sidelines. Food and drink stands cater to the audience.

Admission and Reform

Admission is deliberately kept low at €5 per adult (children free) – the Planet Glow is conceived as a community festival, organized by volunteers from the Magdeburg district of Reform. Those who visit once usually come back: this mix of Easter bonfire, family program, and a small open-air stage in a fortress setting is not often found in the state of Saxony-Anhalt.