Traditional festivals folklore and fairs Luxembourg

On the first Sunday after the carnival ( Buergsonnden), Luxembourgers celebrate the Buergbrennen, also called "Fête des Brandons". On this unusual day, Buergen (bonfires) are lit all over the country to chase away the winter and welcome the good weather. A torchlight procession ( Fakelzuch) is usually organized through the streets of the villages. In the evening, the inhabitants gather around the fire and share culinary specialties while drinking Glühwäin (mulled wine).

Once celebrated at the end of the harvest, the Leiffrawëschdag is a traditional festival that takes place in the wine-growing village of Greiveldange on Assumption Day. The day begins with a mass with choir during which the Wësch, a bouquet of herbs, vegetables and grains, is blessed. This is followed by all kinds of entertainment, including a ball in the early evening. It is also an opportunity to taste local culinary specialities accompanied by excellent Moselle wines.

Niklosdaag (St. Nicholas' Day) is celebrated in honour of Nicholas of Myre, a 4th century bishop, patron saint and protector of children. On the night of December 5-6, St. Nicholas visits houses to put sweets in children's shoes. During his procession through the streets of the towns, Kleeschen (Saint Nicholas) is accompanied by Houséker (the bogeyman), who punishes children who have not been good . He is said to be at the origin of Santa Claus.