Sonnwendfeier Fürstenstein

Sonnwendfeuer – an old custom

In Bavaria, the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, has always been celebrated by lighting Sonnwendfeuer (solstice bonfires). The fire symbolises the sun, light, and the peak of summer. In the municipality of Fürstenstein, in the district of Passau (Bavaria), this custom is maintained by the local sports clubs – on a warm June evening, locals and guests gather around the blazing fire.

Two festivals in one municipality

Fürstenstein hosts two Sonnwendfeiern on consecutive days:

• Sonnwendfeuer of SV Fürstenstein at the sports grounds – with the traditional lighting of the bonfire in the evening
• Sonnwendfest of SV Oberpolling at the sports field in the Oberpolling district – the club's own summer solstice festival

Both combine the custom with hearty refreshments, music, and convivial get-togethers – supported by the voluntary commitment of the sports clubs.

Atmosphere

As dusk settles over the Passau hill country and the solstice bonfire is lit, the special atmosphere that defines the festival emerges: sparks flying against the evening sky, the aroma of barbecue, cool beer, and the community coming together. A down-to-earth, warm summer festival that showcases the people's connection to tradition and homeland.